We hiked from near at camp quite low down - took the trail until no more trail; last bit is on road. It was likely 4-5 miles with 4000 gain that way. You can drive to this one if you want. We were still first to arrive so overnighted in the lookout. Two other couples came up but camped below. It was socked in so didn't see much. Enjoyed the fire. I hear this one is now being renovated and may become a rental. It looked like a long drive to get to it.