Islip Saddle to Baden-Powell is a great route.  This is a excellent way to increase the challenge of reaching this peak as well as avoiding the crowds you see on the PCT coming from Vincent Gap.  I've taken this route before, but this time we made this trip even more enjoyable by spending the night at Little Jimmy campground.  The trail was relatively clear, with the exception of one massive tree blocking the trail.  We had a smoke free day on the way up, but by the time we reached the peak there were several burning in the distance.  The view of Crystal Lake from Windy Gap was beautiful and clear as we passed by in the morning, however a fire started in that region sometime that afternoon.  We were clear of any danger, but Little Jimmy was covered in a layer of smoke through the rest of the evening.