Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion Acclimatization Plan (Need some guidance)

I'm doing something very similar to your plan A on almost the same dates, also leaving from San Francisco, but I plan to spend the first night at Mammoth Lakes (elevation 8000) instead of driving all the way to Whitney Portal (elevation 7800). No need to leave SF at 5:00 AM that way.

On the first day passing through Yosemite, I like Gaylor Peak as an acclimatization hike. It's 11,000 feet, but it's an easy two hour round-trip hike from the Tioga Pass entrance station.

Day two, drive to Lone Pine, pick up the permit, and do a high altitude day hike in the Whitney area. Sleep at Whitney Portal or Horseshoe Meadow campground.

Day three, Whitney @ 2:00 AM!