Well, there is not ALWAYS someone checking permits. I’ve been up Whitney three times, and have NEVER had anyone check my permit. Then again, it has always been on a Tuesday. I would expect permit enforcement to be a whole lot more strict on Labor Day.
I usually go mid-week because permits are easier to get.
Last year I got checked by USFS rangers 3 of the 3 times I was in the Whitney Zone (or headed up the trail toward it).
The OP should try and add a permit at the visitor center.
