Mark, Bob R posted an answer in the
Current Conditions thread.
I took a careful look at the 97 switchbacks as we passed by. The route is almost all free of snow, except for the cables and the three next switchbacks. That section is solidly socked in. And there are a few simple snowfields to traverse, higher up. Anyone with good winter mountaineering skills should have no trouble on this route now; others best wait until there are some well-formed steps. I'm guessing that the switchbacks will be the preferred route up for everyone in about a week. Take ice ax and crampons for the time being.
Farther down, he wrote that he thought by July, lots of people would be using the trail by the cables.
Best of luck on your hike. ...I hope you will add to the "Current Conditions" thread (or write a new trip report) when you come back.
