Hey guys, I was hoping to secure a Mt. Whitney pass this coming season to propose to my girlfriend as that area is personal to her. I had a few questions and would really appreciate any advice.
1) Obviously the lottery system seems like a 33% chance or so. If I don't get the lottery is there any way to get permits through paid for guided tours or third party?
2) I also read that they have a way through Cottonwood pass without worrying about the lottery permit but when I look online it all says walkup permits only for June-August. Also is the way through Cottonwood pass more technically difficult or just longer? I didn't fully understand whether you had to take Mountaneer's route from that way or if it just meets up with the normal route. If we go in July would it be safe?
3) We are athletically average people in our 20s. She has experience running marathons etc. We have little experience with major hiking but have gone on quite a few hikes in the Colorado area, some with mild snow at the top. If we got a permit in June, would the snow/ice be that difficult to traverse? Many websites are saying July/August, but in case we don't get that, I am trying to get the best sense of safety levels in June (knowing that snowfall varies year to year)
4) Do you guys know if COVID has changed anything from a quota perspective?
Thank you for all the help and I wish everyone best of luck for this season!
