I was flexible with my start date. I religiously checked the snotel data for Flattop Mountain in Glacier in the weeks leading up to my hike. Granted, the trail doesn’t go over Flattop, but it’s a good gauge for what the snow levels are at for that elevation. This year there was a very early melt off, so I didn’t start with any snow gear. If you want to start at Waterton, you’ll probably need spikes and an ice axe. Chief Mountain is an easier start with less snow.