I recommend anyone doing the loop to go in from the East Trailhead. You will save yourself about 2-3 miles of additional hiking. The fire road is about 1.75 miles from the parking area to the loop intersection. There are two creek crossings without bridge crossings you will find elsewhere on the trail. When it rains, there is very little way to cross without walking calf-deep through water. If you're going this way, bring a towel and be prepared to remove your shoes and socks twice, or enjoy walking with squishy, water-logged boots.