My friend and I are gearing up to day-hike Whitney in August. We plan to start around midnight or even earlier, which means several hours of hiking in the dark. How safe is the trail from wildlife? I have an irrational fear of bears, mountain lions, etc. Since it is just the two of us ladies (and not a big group like what I'd prefer), how safe are we hiking the trail at night? Is bear mace recommended?
We plan to refill water at Trail Camp, but if we get there before sunrise, is the water source easy to find in the dark? On the map it looks like there is a small pond/lake to the north of Trail Camp (I am assuming this is where everyone refills?). Will we be able to see it right along the trail, or do we have to go off-trail a bit to search for it?
Any junctions where we could get lost in the dark or steep places where it's easy to fall? Are the switchbacks past Trail Camp safe to tackle in the dark?
I would appreciate any advice or insight. Thanks!
