Re: Hiking up 4 mile trail in spring

Hi, I posted this on another board, but I thought I'd try other opinions...

I'm planning to go to Yosemite in early May, and I'd like to hike up the 4 mile trail. I assume there will still be areas of snow and maybe ice, and the trail may still be "officially" closed, but just how dangerous is it? I know some people still hike it when it is closed in early spring, but how much of a risk would I really be taking? Obviously any fall could be disaster, but do I need to get crampons or take any special precautions, or should I just wait until summer?

thanks!

There's an avalanche chute that remains dangerous in the spring. That's why they keep the trail closed so late. There are other trails so why not wait until summer for this one?