35darkhorse, I’ve climbed Whitney many times, but not recently. Some people need to start at 3-4 AM to climb Whitney in a day, but if you’re taking two days, I wouldn’t start before it’s light enough to see without a headlamp. Your body will appreciate the rest, and it will be easier to find your way.
As long as there is enough snow, climbing directly up the “chute” to the right of the switchbacks is better than the switchbacks. This trip report comments on the chute vs. the switchbacks. You won’t need snowshoes this late in the year.
