We are driving six hours from a sea level city to Lone Pine on September 3 and hiking Mt. Whitney on the 5th. Should we try to hike in elevation on the 4th? Sleep at Whitney Portal night of the 4th (in our car as not camping)? I already booked lodging in Lone Pine for 3-6. My concern is that a few hours hiking and/or sleeping at altitude will not be that beneficial and we should instead focus on getting sleep in Lone Pine on the 4th and starting the hike around 1:00 am on the 5th. Thanks in advance for any advice!
