Dec, 2011, was a super dry month. I drove over Tioga Pass on New Year's Day 2012, which is extremely unusual. You won't find similar conditions to last year unless this winter is also dry.
The norm is to have several feet of snow. Depending on weather and temperatures, it could be knee to thigh-deep powder, or pretty well consolidated and hikeable.
You will need to watch the weather and conditions very closely before deciding to go. Do NOT attempt a day hike if there is anything but the best weather on the forecast.
