I went up 6/20-6/21. I have to agree with Tom S's report.
On the cables, I was able to squeak by all but one on the inside, and had to swing out for one pole. I should have put my trekking pole in my pack, so I could use both hands.
At the top of the switchbacks, the only way up I saw was the path Tom mentioned. And, I'll say that with microspikes and a trekking pole, it was scary. I hung onto the rocks as much as I could, but there was one rock with nothing to grab. One slip, and it would have been a fast ride down. Once past that point, I found myself pretty high up on the knob of rocks to the left of Trail Crest - also not a fun prospect.
The rest was pretty safe - one icy spot between Trail Crest and the JMT junction. Not very visible - be real careful walking along.
As I was leaving, five miles from the trail head, the sole of one of my hiking boots detached. Fortunately, there was an inner sole, so it was still waterproof (as I found when stepping into a river). Not sure how I was going to make the rest of the hike, I tried using my microspikes as a glove to hold the sole on - it worked great. I made it out and back home.
I'll say that it was pretty disgusting seeing how many wag bags people left on the trail. I wish the park service would put serial numbers on them and fine anyone who abandons them.
