We hiked Lava Canyon on each side of the suspension bridge. After the suspension bridge on the left side of the loop things get a little dicey. We were looking for a leisurely hike for the day so we turn around after crossing the waterfall and went back and started on the Ape Canyon trailhead instead. We went up to the junction to Loowit and had already gotten some decent South MSH views so we headed back. It made for a nice short hike without a ton of people.

Beautiful! A bit wet and muddy in places - some very steep - just tread carefully. An absolutely unique area.

The trail is in great condition. One restroom was open. The suspension bridge is still closed so a loop is not possible.  As we traveled to the TH on road 83 a large and healthy-looking black bear ran across the road about 50 feet in front of us.  

We had unexpected sunshine for this hike.  The easy part of the trail was fun and no problems.  After the waterfall, the trail to the suspension bridge was indeed more difficult.  A few sections were scary because the narrow trail was along a very steep cliff. The bridge is still out, and the trail down from there looked too steep for us.  Back to the waterfall and across the steel bridge, the views were great.  There is a little ice along that part of the trail, on the edges.  We went until the trail became steep and with the ice we didn't want to risk slipping.  I don't think there will be many days left this season before the trail becomes seriously icy.  

Sad bridge has been out all season — a why or any plans to repair would be cool to know — added that much more uniqueness and charm to this hike. Worth seeing the canyon and 2500yo volcanic deposition anyhow!