by Staytheyear » Fri Feb 26, 2016 4:32 pm
I called the ranger station today asking the same question. They said as of today there is enough snow to posthole and in the warmer afternoon conditions you do sink a bit. Apparently everyone is just taking random routes up so the "main" trail isn't super packed in. There is a freeze/melt cycle so the beaten in path tends to re-set each day. Ranger said in the morning he just uses crampons and spikes and in the heat of afternoon uses snow shoes as of yesterday's conditions. He said its 50/50 for current people taking snow shoes. I'm going Sunday and I'm bringing snow shoes but hope I don't have to use them. Hope this helps but seems pretty hit or miss for needing shoes right now. If your in decent shape and don't mind the occasional sinking to your shins, you'll make it without shoes.