I would rate this trip a 4 star with a small detour to Vantage Point that only adds 1 more mile to the trip. The trail was quiet and had Deadman's lake campsite to ourselves.
Be aware this trip was done right after a thunder storm so everything looked like a battle zone. On the way up to the trail head there was some fallen trees and branches on the road but you can get around them. An interesting thing to point out, there is no sign indicating you are at the trailhead so just know when you get to the end of the road, the trail you see is Goat Creek Trail.
Early on into the hike you will come across a large cave-like structure that is impressive and would make nice short day hike for some folks. The trail is not the best in the cave area that is narrow, sloped and is slowly eroding away.
The current condition of the trail makes for an adventure as just within the first few miles you'll encounter over a dozen fallen trees. Most are easily passible. Over the course of the entire loop, you'll crawl over or find detours around over 2 dozen fallen trees. This trail is apparently popular for mountain bikers but the few we came across must have had fun navigating the trail. There was only one really bad muddy spot that was tricky to cross without getting muddy. You'll also get to cross multiple river/streams.
There were multiple waterfalls and fortunately the day cleared up on day 2 so our side trip to Vantage Point was nice and clear to see Rainier and Adams, could see St. Helens because of trees.
Bugs weren't a problem, not a single mosquito bite. Deadman's lake has fish but is shallow so would require someone to wade out like 50' to be able to cast into the deeper part of the lake.
Some negative things were caused be irresponsible people. Came across a dozen dog landmines and at the campsite there was TP all over the place. It looked like these were left by the ladies.
Tip: when at the intersection for Goat Creek Trail, Goat Mountain, Road 2612 and Vantage Point, the entrance to Goat Creek Trail has a massive pile of fallen trees and the sign has fallen over so easy to miss but we had GPS so we knew trail had to be there. Back track like 75', then carefully climb down the embankment to get around the trees to continue your loop. This is when you are going clock-wise on the loop. This is the same intersection to go to Vantage Point that's a quick view opportunity and worth the short hike if skies are clear.
Overall, nice challenging backpacking trip with some unexpected minor detours from trees trees and washouts. I would recommend waterproofing pants and shoes as dew from plans soaked us and were fortunately able to get a fire started to dry them out. Also avoid having your foot slip into a stream during the multiple water crossings.
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