Hi Fletch,
1. Leaving Mirror Lake, the trail switchbacks up to the ridge to the south. I accidentally lost it at one switchback by following tracks in snow when the trail actually made an almost 180 turn back. In a month, that snow will be gone. But it would be best to hike that section in daylight, because it is easier to lose the trail in that area.
2. I doubt there will be any snow on the trail by the time you go, but wait for more recent reports. I hiked the entire trail with just boots and poles, but currently, spikes would be helpful to many.
3. Leave the axe home.
4. Shorts are fine unless it's cold. I have zip-off pants, so it works either way depending on temperatures.
