Most recent NPS reports available state that there is 3+ feet of snow (100% coverage) starting above 8.5k'. I'd hoped to be out for a full week +/- and of course want to have what is needed and only what is needed. Hard call there...
Kahtoolas, crampons, snowshoes? I don't see (unavoidable) post-holing a problem so I don't think the 'shoes will come along. The Kahtoolas are light but I've had best luck with them for partial coverage.
That leaves crampons (maybe gaiters too). I just don't have experience with July after a snow year like this. Is that overkill? There are so many variables here I realize it's a very subjective question (probably with no "correct" answer). Worst case is to not go where 'shoes or crampons are required if we didn't bring them. Thoughts? Thanks.
Edit: I think this is mostly about what conditions to expect. I've summited Shasta in June with just hiking boots (a route more to the west than the most popular route). Summiting Mt. Hood in June required crampons & ice axe (self-arrest on long unbroken ascent and lots of ice at the "Pearly Gate"

For others trying to determine current conditions in the back country, I found this pretty good, official link: https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/wildcond.htm
Hope it can help others (I'm sure many already know of it but add it here just in case)
For the area I'm looking at I found this:
Glacier Point Rd: Ostrander Lake, Illilouette Creek:
The trail to Ostrander Lake is clear until the last mile and then is 100% covered with depths of 3 ft. Mono Meadows are completely flooded. Illilouette Creek is impassable at Mono Meadow junction. Hikers will need to go to the panorama trail and use the bridge there to cross Illilouette Creek.
South End: Chinualna Creek:
The trail to Chinualna Falls is clear. Crossing Chilnualna Creek to the south is not recommended at this time. Once across, patches of snow begin to grow as elevation is gained hitting 100% snowpack around 8,500 feet.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 06/26/2017 11:59AM by ags.