1. The switchbacks are never "closed", but if there is too much snow, it becomes easier to head straight up the "chute", which is not so much a chute, but actually the wide slope just west of the switchbacks.
2. You can start up the switchbacks, and if you are fighting too much snow, just leave them and head west and then up. Or talk to others coming down and ask what they did and what they might recommend.
3. Start from Trail Camp, follow tracks in the snow.
4. Leave everything you don't need in Trail Camp. That's what everyone else will be doing.
5. Safe from people. Marmots: All food must be either stored in a bear can or taken on your hike to the summit.
Have fun! You won't be alone, so talk to others you meet. And remember, the mountain will always be there. Your most important goal is to get back home safely.
