OK, so Chasm Meadows isn't a route up, but there was no other option for a simple trail report up to past Chasm Junction; we were planning on ice climbing in the area but ran short of time. So: The standard Longs Peak trail is in fine shape, but fully snow packed. No need for snow shoes in the morning, but we wore them anyway for the traction. Here's the interesting thing: IMO the normal winter shortcut from the lightning sign to Jim's Grove isn't laid out all that well this year. It starts past the sign (usually in my experience it starts just before) and it meanders too much in the thicker trees. OK but not great. Once to Jims Grove the trail is, as usual, pretty packed and wind blasted. From Chasm Junction over to Chasm Meadows (same as the approach for the Loft Route/Chasm Lake) the snow is deeper in spots, snow shoes were helpful but not critically important. Note: That problematic slope before you get to the lake is problematic as usual. Loaded at 34 degrees, but we experienced no signs at all of instability; well compacted but full disclosure we did not dig a pit. We did, however, use steep slope protocol (one at a time, watch your buddy, etc.). We also crossed that slope with snow shoes, which was OK, but it was so densely compacted in spots that kicking steps probably made more sense. Finally, there is a nice series of shortcuts on the descent through the trees to the TH, eventually it links you up with the old Goblins Grove shortcut directly to the TH. Saves a bit of time, I believe, and in winter no issue with trail erosion. Have fun, be safe.
-Tom
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