[pct-l] prep for JMT--advice?

[AsABat]

Unless it is an unusually heavy snow year, snow should be of little
consequence by July 20.

However, late July of 1998 was an exception. I led a group of 7 from
southbound from Bishop Pass. The north side of Mather Pass was almost solid
snow and ice for several miles. The two of us with instep crampons and ice
axes broke trail for those with only trekking poles. Even this could have
been done without such equipment, but they sure made it easier and safer.

AsABat

> We are planning to hike the JMT SOBO during summer 2007 (July 20-Aug 15 or
> so), and are wondering if it is necessary at that time to bring crampons
> or
> an ice axe.  Obviously, this depends on conditions, but just curious what
> the general sentiment is out there.  I tend to err on the safe side, but I
> suspect that carrying this equipment at that time of year might be
> overkill??