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

[enyapjr at comcast.net]

> 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?

No.  The permit is for the "Whitney Zone" in Inyo NF East of Trail Crest...

> Can one climb Mt Whitney from the PCT, then descend again back west to the PCT without a permit?

Yes.

> Can one get to Lone Pine without passing through the portal?

Exit the PCT via Mulkey Pass or Trail Pass to Horseshoe Meadow and hitch to Lone Pine, or exit via 
Kearsarge Pass to Onion Valley, hitch to Independence, then hitch or CREST bus to Lone Pine...

Or pay the $15 to have the option of exiting over Trail Crest (must return "within 48 hours") plus
have the 'souvenir' stamp on your PCT Thru-Permit...

See <http://www.pcta.org//planning/before_trip/permits.asp>...

Happy trails!!!
Jim (PITA)