Does anyone have two extra spots on a day hike permit, or can waitlist us in case of cancellations? My hiking buddy and I have been trying to get a permit to day hike Mt. Whitney with no luck.

Cancelled permits pop up on recreation.gov all the time especially as dates get closer. Keep an eye out for the dates you're hoping for and maybe some will pop up.

It helps to be relatively flexible on climbing dates so if a permit pops up a day or two before/after you planned to climb then you can still ascend!