I was there in February a few years ago and the sand was basically frozen in the morning and you could climb anything. By about 11:00 when things thawed out, the climbing was more of a problem. However, it was all sand. No mud that I found, so some rain probably won't hurt the travel. As far as an open cab, that wouldn't be much fun, I agree. Decide for yourselves. If you are out, let me know and I won't make the trip either.