Greg, It's an uphill hike! not sure how far but can feel like a couple miles at times. I would guess it's about 1-1 1/2 miles in but you can pack things in, heck we even carried 2 cast iron pans in today.
The lean-to will probably only sleep 3-5 comfortably but not with cots. Plenty of room for tents though.
If people work together we can get the handy items up there, IE. a lantern, stove and food. It really isn't that bad, you could make 2 trips pretty easy. There's stump shooting along the way so you can take your time and enjoy the hike.
Best part is, you will not be bothered buy anyone, at most you may hear some 4 wheelers but I think your chances may be better seeing bear!