Saw woodpeckers, probably 40 wild turkeys, and 2 deer. Trail was ok for plain nike tennis shoes until Azalea Fire Road, then was covered in thick slippery mud intermittently. When we got to Conejo Trail,  the mud patches worsened and so did the incline. Midway up Conejo, there were snow banks in the switchback shaded spots that covered the trail. Tons of rocks to navigate, as well. Definitely bring good WATERPROOF trail shoes, and flipflops to change into at the car. Park at Trout Lake lot to avoid $10 campground fee. Weather was PERFECT with full sun and cold wind- dress in layers. If my 8yo and I managed to hike this in Nikes (I know, mom fail????), you’ll be fine! 🙂