Trident777 hit the nail on the head.

(Only trident, Whitney Portal is 8000' elev.)

jt33, you can be in fantastic hiking condition, but AMS can take it ALL away. ...or you can be one of the 25% of the lucky ones who can do Whitney and not be affected. But it is really disappointing if you get to Trail Camp, and find you are in the other 25% that is nearly incapacitated by AMS.

Here is what I would do: Keep yourself in good condition -- what you are doing is good. But arrive in the Whitney area two full days before your hike: Drive up to Horseshoe Meadows, arrive at bed time (even midnight), and sleep. Next day, drive down and pick up the permit, then get back up to HM (it's 10k elevation). Spend at least two nights there. On hike day, get up super early and drive to Whitney Portal and start the hike. If you can spend three nights before the hike, then do the first two at HM, and the third at WP. The 3-night process will practically ensure your success on the hike.

Good luck!

P.S. You might check into getting some low-dose Diamox (Acetazolamide) and taking it 2 days before the hike.

Last edited by Steve C; 04/29/15 10:47 PM.