We hiked Whitney on July 2nd and the cables were completely clear. The hike up was 8 hours 20 minutes and down about 6. I went through 4 liters of water as it was really warm. I would recommend starting no later than 2 am for a day hike. We hiked the last 2 1/2 miles in the rain (welcomed rain because we were nearly finished). The thunder I am sure lightning as well was terrifying to anyone above the tree line.
