We did the hike as a loop. The longer, more gradual approach was muddy, with many stream crossings - at times the trail was a stream. The trail was mostly dirt, with a little snow and ice - occasionally knee deep. Be careful as you need to make a right hand turn off this road within a minute or so of hiking. The 2 trails intersect a short distance below the summit.
Great care is needed with children on the summit, which has large drop offs.
I enjoyed hearing the many hermit thrushes, and one winter wren on the way out.