If I come in from the downwind side....I'm gonna be coming through some dry leaves areas (right through the middle of the woods.....and NOISY). If I com in from the upwind side.....it's more stealth.......but our scent will be everywhere.
If you have the option of coming in from downwind, I would definately use that approach, even in the dry crunchy leaves. Give yourself plenty of time to get to your stand so you can walk very slowly easing your feet down and stop often. If a deer doesn't hear the steady walking of a man they often won't spook.
Good luck and let us know how you do!