Not sure what flexibility you have on your schedule, but I am planning a one day hike up/down Langley. I am planning on "old" Army Pass. As I understand it, a bit shorter - more direct, and from other posts I guess that you avoid a sandy climb back up to NAP.
I will be doing this hike on June 28th. I picked this date since Miles and Amy (Whitney Portal Store) are doing their dog and pony show on their trip to Patagonia on the 29th.
John, I see your plans to do "old" AP. I keep thinking about what Richard P
wrote about what he called "Thompson Pass" as an approach up Langley. He posted a few pictures, but didn't describe the route. I am not sure, but it sounded like it might be a better alternative to OAP.
Now looking at his pictures (25 - 34 in this set:
Mt. Langley - May 24, 2013 it looks like it is a tough climb, and he used ice axe etc.
I believe from his SPOT track I saw that the pass is the last one north of the Cottonwood Lake #5.
(map) You might email RP, or talk to Doug when you are at the Portal to get more info.
Anyway, if you feel bold and adventurous, you might think about trying it out.
