The above is all good, but on #1, there are also studies that show ginkgo biloba does not have any effect. I use the more often recommended Diamox (acetazolamide), which is a prescription drug. 62.5 or 125 mg twice a day, starting at least 24 hours before you go to altitude is recommended for hikers. Do NOT take the higher dosage sometimes prescribed for glaucoma.
I like to sleep overnight at Horseshoe meadows -- walk-in spots are easy to find. Last time I did that, then spent a day relaxing at the walk-in sites at Whitney Portal near the trail head.
