Water pools in upper lava Canyon (Steve Hart)

The Lava Canyon Bridge (Steve Hart)

Fall color (Steve Hart)

• Start point: Lava Canyon Trailhead
• End point:Lava Canyon Suspension Bridge
• Trail Log: Trail Log
• Hike Type:Out and back
• Distance: 1.1 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 500 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Seasons:May-Nov
• Family Friendly: Yes
• Backpackable: No
• Crowded: Yes

Hike Description

This is a great hike for geology and volcano buffs looking for an easy stroll.

From the trailhead head downhill through the forest on the paved trail. This section is particularly beautiful in the fall when the maples turn to blazing red. After a few switchbacks on pavement and boardwalks, you'll reach an improved lookout. The trail beyond here, is still a good hiking trail, but it's made of dirt and basalt. At the trail junction with the Lava Canyon Loop Trail, turn right and cross the bridge. The water here falls through several interlocked pools in random fashion. The trail follows the edge of the 2500 year old lava flow and then ducks into the trees for a bit.

Soon, you'll come to the Lava Canyon Suspension Bridge. This is one of the largest hiking bridges in the northwest. People with height phobias should probably turn back.

Once across the bridge turn left to return up the Lava Canyon Trail to the trailhead.

Side trip options

You may turn right after the suspension bridge to extend your hike and see several large waterfalls downstream. However, this section has many unprotected dropoffs and is not recommended for families with small kids or for anybody afraid of heights. This is probably better done from the lower end effort-wise - see Lava Canyon from Smith Creek Hike for details.

Maps

• Maps: Hike Finder

Regulations or restrictions, etc

• Northwest Forest Pass required at the trailhead

Trip Reports

• Search Trip Reports for Lava Canyon

Related Discussions / Q&A

• Search Trail Q&A for Lava Canyon

Contributors

• Stevefromdodge (creator)