1st timer here.. this forum has been super helpful with my preparation. Thank you to all of you that contribute quite regularly!

Are waterproof boots a must? My feet tend to blister in waterproof boots. I am going to try out the liner + wool sock thing to see how it goes.

Also, would you recommend carrying microspikes late July? Trying to cut down weight, but I read trip reports from late July that talked about snow in past years.