Per usual, the Mowich Lake road has a lot of washboard. It is rough in many spots but should be OK for most cars. Trailhead has toilet.
I've hiked this trail several times, and I always notice it seems to be divided into four parts. The first is mostly downhill through lovely forest to Meadow Creek, and is the steepest section of the day. The second is from the creek to a very distinct left turn of the trail as it abruptly changes direction. There is some very moderate climbing here. The third section is from the turn to the first views of Mt Rainier. This is my favorite part, as it is a flat, pleasant contour before beginning the descent to the South Mowich. There are 3 or 4 views from as many different switchbacks; I personally like the second one best. The last section goes from the views to the river. Quite a few switchbacks here, as well as a bit rougher trail, but still pretty decent tread.
If you want to go on, there is a new bridge that leads to some nice forest and lunch spots by the river. Or, you can use the campground sites close by if they are unoccupied.
Of course, it is mostly uphill on the way out, but the gain is spread out well enough that most of the climbing is fairly moderate. As I mentioned, the steepest part is at the end, but even that is fairly short.
This is a nice hike. It doesn't have the spectacular scenery of nearby Spray Park or Tolmie Peak, but it is certainly worth a look.
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