Hiking up without skins - Crampons, spikes, shoes?

Spring and summer uphill traction system (old, semi-rotted running shoes, Yaktrax, Whippets):

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3363/3561426957_b6f379de67.jpg?v=0

April of 2006 we were up to our waist in snow around the triangle moraine and had to retreat (no snowshoes, no skis). A few days later we returned with snowshoes and made it to the top (aided by crampons above the hogs back). I would take both because you never know what snow conditions you'll encounter and you can just carry what you're not using.

Have fun.

To each his own, but I'd recommend bringing snowshoes. A lack of snowshoes can really hurt your progress. If you are leaving early and the mtn got a good freeze the night before, then crampons may be advisable; but, other than the higher peaks of the state the snow will get softer as the day goes on - it's not getting any harder until nightfall. Snowshoes - with cleats - are the best bet.

Thanks to everyone for your suggestions.  I picked up some Kahtoola microspikes and will see how far I get.   They aren't crampons, but they sure are light, packable, and grippy.   I'll bring my snowshoes just in case, but hope I don't have to use them. 

UPDATE: JUNE 16th. Microspikes worked fantastic. They didn't help much in the slushiness at the bottom (where just boots or snowshoes would have worked), but as I climbed up the post-holed ascent, they grabbed nicely. I'd probably recommend fully crampons for steep terrain and trail-breaking.

Good choice ! I just had a ski partner in soft snowboard boots take a 100 ' slide . The cause He got out of the boot track and was unable to kick steps in hard snow with soft boots. He finally stopped himself with ski pole arrest Learn ski pole arrest, whippets or ice axe. practice same.
Have fun !