Regarding the switchbacks vs. the “chute”: When the chute has complete snow coverage, it is always a better option than the switchbacks. It is shorter, steeper, and more direct. It is always possible to take the switchbacks, but the trail up the switchbacks gets covered in snow and is difficult to find. You can waste a lot of time walking twice as far in deep snow looking for the trail. Take the chute, bring real crampons (not MICROspikes), boots with stiff soles, and an axe, and know how to use them.