Is a permit required to hike up to Meysan Lake? That would be another nice hike out of the Whitney Portal. I'd tend to say to keep the campsite. There's plenty to do in the area.
No permit required. It is a fantastic and beautiful hike. You will not be disappointed. Perfect substitute for those didn't-get-those permit blues.
Also, you may want to brush up on some geology.
At one time there was a huge glacier. As the earth warmed, the earth started to melt. The water collected over the years behind an ice dam. Rocks fell down from mountain onto the ice and water below. Ice melted. The the pressure of the water was too much and the ice dam gave way. Or was it a massive temblor that shook the mountains violently? Imagine a wall of water gorging out the canyon onto the valley below.
If you stop by Lone Pine Campground, you will get the picture. No, the Alabamas are a lot older than Mt. Whitney.
You can see those big greys on your drive to the Portal. All of those large rocks. How did they get there? Simple, they rode an ice sleigh. Some of those granite boulders have to weigh at least 20 tons. Water alone could not have transported those huge stones.
And when you hike up Meysan Lakes you can see the remnant of some prehistoric lake. Look closely at the rocks at your feet. Worn smooth by the constant waves on the shore.
This, of course, just my theory.
Have fun.
