This lake's trail had been closed for many years until the Forest Service re-built the trail making it safer and more hiker-friendly. The trail is indeed very steep -- and longer than advertised. The sign at the trailhead said "3.6 miles, strenuous hike", but my round trip GPS came in at 9.6 miles. Elevation gain was 2,083 ft to a maximum elevation of 3,597 ft.There are a LOT of switchbacks, 23 is the number I've seen. And a LOT of stairs! They could call this hike "the stairway to heaven". Beautiful lake and view of Mt Index. Holds rainbow trout.