Hike matched description perfectly. Lake had some biting black flies, so I didn’t stay there for lunch. Went back to the bridge and chose that location for lunch. Shady and nice breeze coming off the water. It was a lovely day!

Seeking some sunshine and views, we elected to take the Swift Creek trail / Worm Flows route (trail 244) to the 4,800 ft level where climbing permits are required.  After a brief snack break we returned to the Pika Trail (#244 D) to June Lake and returned via the June Lake Trail (#216B) and the still-gated FR 83. 

The trail was mostly snow-free for the first mile and then fully covered from there on. We had snowshoes with us but never used them since the trail was hard pack and frozen from the night before.  Even as the day progressed and the snow softened we did not use snowshoes though we did wear microspikes on the return.  

Be careful on the Pika Trail since the snow is melting very fast and the lava field makes for very precarious travel.  We broke through a few time even when we walked slowly and carefully.

Mosquitos are in season at the moment, so expect them especially at June Lake Trail. There is a 12" log down on the June Lake trail. 

At Laval Canyon, the trail guard rail is down on the north end of the Lava Canyon Bridge. This opening in the guard rail is dangerous due to it being right by the drop off into the canyon and falls itself. Please do not walk beyond this breakage. 

Some erosion remains at the top of the Ape Canyon Trail at the upper portion of the canyon.

Forest Road 83 is passable for 4x4 High Clearance vehicles only. Compact cars without 4x4 have the highest level of risk of getting stuck in the mud/sand washout with flowing and standing water.

June Lake to the Loowit Intersection is overgrown in some spots. Some downed trees from Swift Creek to June Lake, but they are easy to climb over. 

Forest Road 83 Update as of 07/02/2024: Forest Road 83 has a washout just before June Lake Trailhead. 4x4 and High Clearance is a must due to the sand/mud mixture with active flowing and standing water. Compact cars have the highest level of risk getting stuck. At least one compact vehicle was stuck in the washout on 07/02/2024. Please exercise extreme caution when approaching the washout and use your best judgement when determining whether or not to cross it.