http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/giffordpinchot/recarea/?recid=74275This is the Forest Service current conditions page.
I've driven it in an SUV, and thought it was an easy drive, for a paved FS road. On Google Maps terrain view, the only significant climb is a the Packwood end, with one broad hairpin curve. At the Rainier end it parallels the main access road to Longmire, but on the south side of the river just outside the park. Not many views due to the trees.
a videoA time-lapse 8 minute version of the drive.