I used an ice axe and crampons on 7/8 and 7/9, but most people we encountered didn't. As with all late season snow it's hard in the mornings and evenings and soft in the heat of the day. I climbed the slope straight up and down the widest part of the snowfield in early morn and early evening with a full pack, so having an axe and 'pons made the going quick and safe for me. There was a decent boot track, though a bit slick from the melt during the day. If you have firm boots and can kick a good step, you might be fine. I saw a friend had issues on an approach of Temple Craig last weekend when they hit icy snow and didn't bring crampons or axe. They failed in their climb from the slow progress of trying to hike steep icy snow. Just sayin'
This is what it looked like on 7/8/11
