Man, your question is identical to the one I was going to ask! Did Warner last year with a detour up windy pass and down. Going to try one lake further this year and land in Lorna. Have you gone on your trip yet? We're heading this weekend.
I've been recommended by my local friend that option #1 is hands-down the way to go. Do you have any gps map of your ride or know where to get one?
Cheers,
PM me your email for the .gpx files for Lorna/Deer/Gun and other rides there.
I did Lorna/Deer/Gun last weekend and there is more snow than usual on the north (up) side of Deer pass but less than one would expect. Funny enough, the snow on the south (descent) side of the pass was more of an impediment. Ps the wildflowers are pretty amazing right now. While you are there, be sure to do the Taylor/Windy/Spruce loop - the Windy descent to Spruce is in the best condition I've ever seen it.