This is a well maintained but semi-rugged trail Trail starts on a gravel road, descends gently for about 3/4 of a mile. Then you start the trail proper, the trail ascends a little and then flattens off with gentle ups and downs. There are a few muddy patches, some split cedar boardwalks which are generally in good shape, however use caution as they were slippery and/or icy in spots, and a couple of small creek crossings. After probably 1/2 a mile of this the trail starts switch-backing up the valley side, the switchbacks are at a relatively steep grade. After about 2 miles you will emerge from the trees and cross the first tributary (after starting the switch-backs). This is where the ice and snow on the trail begins to be a concern. I suspect the slabby rock here could be icy and quite treacherous early in the day, a slip could be catastrophic, however it is south facing and was wet but not icy for me. After crossing the creek the trail gets snowier and icier, and is generally a mixture of packed snow, ice, and some rock for the remaining mile or so. The trickiest section of the trail is the 1/4 of a mile after the next creek crossing.
Microspikes were not necessary but most people would feel happier with them. The same can be said for poles
Expect the trip down to take almost as long as the trip up. For the return trip I would allow: 4-6 hours for anyone who is fairly fit and fast, probably 6-9 hours for average hikers, plus time for exploring the basin and enjoying the views.
Given the current forecast, I would expect the trail to remain in the current state for most of the next week.
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