Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion Walk-Up Permits

I am planning to do Whitney this July but our group was unsuccessful in getting permits in the lotto. I have been told I can probably get a permit the day of our hike if we just show up. We are shooting to start the hike on a Thursday and there are only 3 of us in the group.

Does anyone have experience getting walk-up permits? If we show up Thursday morning, would we potentially be able to get a permit for that day? Or would it be for Friday? Are these just "day-use” only permits or can we take 2 days to complete the climb?

Lastly, if we are unsuccessful at getting permits on site, can anyone recommend other good hikes nearby that we could have as a backup plan?

Thanks!

Start by reading "Step 6" of the Wilderness Permit Options (link to the left). And especially look at the Unused Permits pages to get an idea of your chances.

Chances for getting walk-in permits for week day starts for permits are very good.