The marshy area in the willows has one spot that's a muddy, sloppy mess and difficult to avoid completely. So I would recommend actual hiking books rather than running shoes as those are no fun when they get wet (although I did see someone hike up the peak in Chacos). The gravel chute up to the ridge is quite steep and slippery-- make sure to move quickly and watch your step so you don't slide down! There will likely be lots of bugs as you return down to treeline and back to your car even if it is windy at the summit-- don't count on a breeze down lower to keep the bugs away. I didn't see many mosquitoes, but the flies are really annoying. I took my friend up here yesterday: this was only her second 14er, and she doesn't do a lot of hiking to begin with. Overall, I think this is a good route for a beginner who still wants a bit of a challenge.
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