We’re going to be hiking the JMT nobo starting July 6th. Does anyone have any current info, or reports from others who’ve been thru already? Should i plan for crampons and axes or will yak trax and trekking poles be suitable? Any info is greatly appreciated.
chris d
You’ll be fine without an axe and crampons. There will probably still be some significant snow in spots, but it’s going to be very well-tracked by then. If 1 or 2 spots (maximum) are an issue, just time it to go through those parts when the snow is soft. Typically the 3 places of concern are Glen Pass, Mather Pass, and Forester Pass. The other opposite issue is the north side of Muir Pass, which holds a ton of snow, but is flatter and bad for postholing. That part is best if you can do it in the morning.
markv
I have been threw in 06 in a big snow yeat in late june without crampons and I never use my ice axe. And in july, you won’t have to ford some big stream. So good luck and enjoy !
Stomp’er
You will want to replace you crampons and ice axe with bug repellent and head net as the mosquitoes will be plentiful
OregonBeerMan
This is 2 decade old info, but: The rivers were at maximum melt in July, so expect to scout the fords... hint: in Bear Creek, we tried to cross unsuccessfully at the trail, then downstream found a large boulder & on the downstream side was below the knee as opposed to above waist deep at trail. at Evolution creek, we crossed at the widest part above the rapids that was slow but also over waist deep. With trail under snow in the passes, we would have to send out advance search parties who would sing out "trail!" whenever we saw a cairn or tread emerging from snow, thus it's more useful to have several in your party or join up with other hikers. Back then you could expect not just snow fields, but heavy duty suncups in the melted July afternoon snowfields.... it was like a 3 stooges, slipping repeatedly, so yes some half or semi crampons & iceaxe might be helpful. Take advantage of whatever bear campsite bear boxes you can, then hang or canister your food so you don't end up with a massive bear in your tent with you as I did (actually, on top of my tent & me) trying to get my bags of candy bars.
gingerbreadman