[pct-l] mt whitney permits - whats the deal?

[Justin West]

 So I am wondering what the story is on Mt Whitney.  Does one need a 15$
permit if one does not pass through the portal on the east side?  Can one
climb Mt Whitney from the PCT, then descend again back west to the PCT
without a permit?  Can one get to Lone Pine without passing through the
portal?

thanks
justin