Joined a group hiking trip to the lake from Shoreline. So happy I did because the drive on a weekend is not something to look forward to (traffic on Hway 2 from Monroe to Gold Bar is just terrible). From the hway, its at least a 15 minute drive on unpaved forest service road to the trail head. Parking is limited, NPS pass is required. The lake is popular with hikers and campers (you can camp at the lake without needing a reservation, just the pass/hangtag that you have to display in your car) and just a single toilet at the trail head (there's a toilet area uphill from the lake). No water fountain, and far from restaurants so make sure you bring those with you.
The hike to the lake is fantastic with plenty to explore along the trail if you brought kids along. Uneven ground in some stretches but overall an easy hike for kids and adults with wonky knees.
Expect crowds on weekends and lots of dogs (leashed and un leashed). Recommend a weekday visit to avoid the weekend traffic and flock of hikers/campers on the trail.