Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion Advice for trail head overnight at elevation?

Not sure as to "legality", but as Bob mentioned, you are not actually camping, so you might be OK to park at Schulman Grove. Nice paved parking area, with level places (perhaps not within the lines:-)) Even restrooms, although I guess they will be locked. Several trails to pick from to "warm up". Not sure if Covid will close trails, or not. This is the end of the paved road, and the altitude is ~ 10K', so good for your purpose. This would leave you a ~ 90 - 120 min drive to the gate. For more info you can contact USDA Forest Service in Bishop: 760-873-2500

I was up there last August for night photography, and the place was dead quiet. I very much doubt you would be disturbed.