The ice was pretty melted so you don't have to worry about that. We started the hike at 6:30 am, this makes a huge difference, it's a lot fresher and more enjoyable, you are able to find parking, avoid big crowds, and there aren't as many bugs out when it's that early. The last mile getting closer to the summit is pretty rough, so take your time, don't rush, take breaks if you need to, make sure to stretch once in a while. You will have to get your hands dirty and climb a bit of rocks towards the summit but it's totally doable so don't feel discouraged. Definitely make sure to stop and enjoy the landscape that surrounds you! You can see LA and the ocean from up there! It took us about 4-5 hours, we made it back to the car before noon. It was already starting to get warm by then so we were so glad to start as early as we did. Also, when you begin the trail you will come to a fork and you want to follow the trail to your left marked with an orange ribbon! Do not follow the trail to your right because that leads you towards a very steep hill. Stick to the trail on the left hand side that wraps around the hill, you will hike over 3 false peaks before reaching strawberry peak ????⛰