Now. There will be snow. I did a trip on a low snow year in mid May - and there are always iffy portions. This year, you can guarantee the iffy portions will be more frequent and severe. Personally, I would not, will not enter the whitney zone without helmet, axe, spikes this year, until late summer. You may only need this gear for 100yds of the trail, but trust me, I have turned around over these 100yds because I didnt have the tools. Travel safely. Summiting is optional, descending is mandatory. -805
