Thank you Steve for your kind words, gives some motivation. My buddies and I have permit for the 13th of May and will try and summit on the 14th. I am hoping storms predicted for the May 5-8th will the last for a few days and hopefully clear up by the time we get there. Yes, initially I was of the idea of just using the switchbacks to be safe but the more reading, reports by others and expert advice, I am starting to think the way you had suggested. Just follow suit steps left behind by people and hope it is going on the trail and not too off trail.
My game plan is to try and get to the camp a little earlier on 13th so that I can practice using the ice axe and get more confidence in the event I am taking the chute the next day (which is very likely). I also have a few friends trying to summit this coming weekend. I am waiting to hear more from them too.
