Hi, Retrofan. I have hiked both Langley and Whitney more than once, and I spoke to someone at the permit office this morning, too. In terms of overall challenge, they are indeed comparable. Langley is a longer hike (and yes, I would advise leaving before dawn), but it does not have the steepness or exposure of Whitney. I personally find Langley to be a more beautiful, scenic trip. As of this morning, the uppermost gate on Horseshoe Meadow road is still closed, but you are officially allowed to park on the side of the road and hike in, as you wrote. Finally, as for crampons, I would agree that you probably do not need them now, at least over New Army Pass. | 
