Went on Friday morning, 1pm. Average 3 mph. 3.15mi. to the lake, got there in 1:15. Return trip same mileage and about 1:00. About 4 parties coming up and 4 coming down. I wasn't aware you could use the NW pass for this so I paid the $5 for the one at the trailhead.
Trail condition: 4/5 Not marked, one felled tree that can be easily gone over or under. Path visible from previous hikers. Lower half of the trail was 50% dry and 50% covered with small streams from snow melt. Second half of the hike was 50% packed snow, 40% larger streams, and 10% mud/slush. I expect these conditions to change as we have a few warm days into next week. If you want to go past the viewpoint and to the lake, there is deep snow about 1ft.
Trail difficulty: 2/5 Switchbacks and not that steep of a grade. The snow is making it a bit more difficult than it is, but if the grandmas I saw could do it, so could you.
Navigation: 5/5 Easy to follow the trail without map
Parking: 3/5 Tiny lot at the trailhead for about 10 cars. Note that people camp here so there may be vehicles when you arrive. I did not see posted signs so if there is no space, I assume you can park on the side of the road. Road is paved going in. I have a sports sedan with minimal clearance, and I was fine even though there was a bit of snow towards the parking. By the time I got back it was considerably melted, so I expect the road to be completely clear within the next few days.
Features: 4/5 To me the hike was great, had a little bit of everything, streams, waterfalls, views, lake, and peaceful.
Family friendly: 4/5 You can probably take children on this trail as it is not that hard, however I would advise against it until the snow melts. I saw people with poles and spikes, I don't use either, but they wouldn't hurt. My suggestion if you want to go down to the lake, absolutely bring gaiters otherwise you're going to have wet feet (don't do what I did, but I was able to dry my socks in the sun)
Overall: 5/5 Bluebird day, warm sun, it was a great hike. I had lunch by the lake and it was fantastic and peaceful. Had a coat coming up, but coming down just wore a t-shirt. Do this hike while the weather is beautiful this weekend.
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