Just a few things to add to Janet's post, as one of her party of four. Though this was not my first backcountry hiking trip, it was my first go at Whitney, and I feel proud (and lucky) that we were able to summit. I feel like we were adequately prepared, though clearly there were some take-home points about what we might do differently next time.

As J mentioned, the packing issue was an area that we could have improved upon, overlapping a bit less as a group on snacks and bear canister-contained items.

Physically, I feel like I am in fairly decent shape. However, after spending the night in Trail Camp, I woke up wondering if I was going to be able to even start up the switchbacks. Altitude left me with quite a headache. Also, I can't stress the importance of hydrating. And for me, once we started climbing on Day 2, adding electrolyte to my water made a huge difference to how I felt.

Trekking poles were a godsend, and I can't imagine not having used them.

I don't think there's any such thing as too much research. Reading these message board posts, keeping an eye on conditions, and having a clear plan are key, I think.

For me, I'm not sure another night at Trail Camp after summiting would have been desirable. While it was a bit tough going descending from TC, I was glad to make it down to the trail head the evening of our second day. One thing's for sure, there's no way I could have been "jogging back" (esp. with a 35+ lb pack and rain for a good share of the return). Hiking as part of group, too, it was important for all of us to remain (relatively) together most of the time.

Which brings up my final observation. Upon returning to Whitney Portal, we encountered one person without a pack, on her own, who though less than half a mile from the trail's end, seemed to be lost/disoriented. Another two hikers at trail's end were asking if we had encountered a member of their party who they had become separated from (a different situation from the first one). Seems to stress the importance of keeping with your group, if that is your plan.

Overall, an awesome experience, but one with challenges that shouldn't be underestimated.