Leaving tent open is a good idea. All food and food trash inside the canister.
Old trail is easy to find. Just read the
Old Trail thread. I saw a trip report where someone said crossing North Fork L.P. creek isn't a big problem anymore.
Stove or not is a personal choice. I'd take mine, but its total weight including fuel is about 1/4 lb. Titanium Wing Stove with homemade aluminum foil wind screen.
Parking: At the trail head, in the overflow lot just below, and third choice is along the road. There should be enough available. Have not heard of any problems.
Altitude: Spend overnight at Horseshoe Meadows, or at least, the walk-in spots at Whitney Portal. The higher you sleep the better. Couple hours is not very effective.
