A friend and I are thinking about climbing the Grand and Gannett during the first couple weeks of June, and are wondering what sort of snow conditions to expect. Obviously, it will be early in the season, and we expect a lot of snow, but is it still feasible?
On Gannett, with the route proper being primarily a snow climb, it seems like conditions should be nearly optimal, with the snow fully consolidated and 'schrund covered. Is this assumption correct? I expect the approach (Glacier Trail) to be more difficult, however, with plenty of afternoon postholing likely and some potentially tricky stream crossings. Any idea how much snow to expect? Will snowshoes be recommended/necessary?
Similar questions regarding the Grand, but I'm also specifically wondering if the nature and difficulty of the routes will be different than in normal summer conditions. Will we need snow or ice pro, or will it still be a primarily rock route with a little mixed climbing or easy to moderate snow thrown in? Ice tools? We would probably climb either Owen-Spaulding or Exum.
Also, avy danger should be minimal by then, correct?
Thanks.