This is an easy family friendly hike that melts out early in the spring and is the last to get snow in the winter. Some years it is a year round hike. The lake is a great destination and the views of Mt. Rainier are awe-inspiring. The hike is mostly level with only a 400 ft gain in the 4.5 mile hike. Average hiking time is 4 hours, but you might want to spend some time at the lake taking in scenery and the peace and quiet. The Packwood Lake trail is open to hikers and equestrians. Mountain bikes, motorcycles and ATVs are prohibited. A NW Forest Pass is required.