We've eaten at Trail's End probably 6+ times in the past 10 years. Unfortunately, the food options have decreased and the experience is now very inconsistent.
We originally loved it for the variety & "down home" feel. We especially love the use of the Ball Jar glasses, as I'm an alum of and currently work at Ball State University!
Our biggest complaint is the line. They have tried a number of different sectioning techniques, but the simple fact is, the buffet area is just too small. To have to get into 3 different lines to get my meal (salads, entrees, dessert) and having only one plate/bowl of each food makes this a painstaking process.
As for the food, the ribs are too tough to eat, the cinnamon chips (my fave) have been gone for years, the variety has decreased, and the cost has increased.
My most recent experience was in Dec. We went out there to take in the decorated campsites and warm up at dinner. Well, we were seated near the Take Out Order door. It was constantly opening/closing, so we froze for our entire meal, as well as had to wait an unexpectedly long time to get served. Our experience back in Oct. was better, but still lacking.
It pains me to give Trail's End a rough review, but the decline has been notable over the years. If it's your first visit, you might not notice any of this. The transportation struggle to get out there also drops it on my list. It's such a shame, because I used to think this was a true Disney Gem.
Good luck!