You can approach from the ledges side - mileage and elevation given from that side, or from the Exit 27 side. We usually go in from Exit 27 as there are less people generally there. The parking lot gets full of bikers, but they have their own trails. There is still a bit of a view from the site so we have had lunch up there a few times. It's a nice trail with some fantastic views in the middle after the last logging. There are great views of Rainier. You can hike as far as you want. You can do it as a one way with cars on either end.