Just wanted to say thanks to this forum for all of the tips and information over the past year. Last year when we attempted Mt. Whitney, we were snowed out so this year we were really anxious for a good trip. We were able to summit this year and did so on 7/12.
The weather conditions were fantastic! We camped at the Portal campground the first night and then hiked up to Trail Camp and spent the night. We woke up and were on the trail by 6:30 and hit the summit at 10:30. I think that it definitely helped to acclimate at each spot. No one in our group had any signs of altitude sickness but I saw several persons on the trail and spoke to a few that did. Drank tons of fluids and ate well. The only problem was having to get out of the warm sleeping bag 3 times during the night.
Very little snow left with the exception on the back side after Trail Crest that you'll pass through. It's a little slippery but o.k. with poles. There's still some water still coming down some of the switchbacks.
That's about it. Had a great time and can't wait for next year! We met a lot of nice folks up there.
