As reported, some potholes on the approach road, but not bad compared to other more popular roads. A number of trees across the trail, but easy step over, duck under or walk around. Forest flowers are out, climaxing in fields of avalanche lilies starting around 5000'.
The trail becomes snow covered at about 5800'. The depth is still several feet, so it may be a bit before it is totally clear. As the trail disappears under the snow, look up and left. There is a switchback under the snow just ahead. If you ascend through the trees for maybe 30' and keep left, you should run into the snow free trail above and be able to follow it to the top. The top is totally snow free with (weather permitting) views of Rainier, Adams, Goat Rocks, St. Helens and even Hood. On the way up we missed the switchback and continued climbing ahead. This gets you into steep snow. With snow skills, you can just kick steps up a hundred feet to the summit. Otherwise look for the trail.
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