The first 2 miles (3.2 km) of Peterson Lake Trail should be in relatively good shape, as they follow the line of an old miner's tram. However, there may still be muddy spots and slippery, wood-plank boardwalks.
Further on, the trail becomes much more eroded, with lots of exposed roots and rocks in addition to the mud and slippery planks.
Although this trail is often at its best during the winter, when it's used for skiing and snowshoeing, the lakeside cabin at trail's end is a popular destination year-round. Take a hint from the Forest Service and, if you hike this trail in the summer, consider wearing long rubber boots to protect your feet from the mud.