The hike starts out by heading into Gardner Canyon. After crossing a suspension bridge over Lava Creek the trail heads east through tall sagebrush. The hike contours under the broad Mount Everts. Mount Everts was once the basin of a valley, but rapid lifting and erosion from the Gardiner River have created the impressive mountain you see today. The multiple layers of ridge tuff, shale and sea bed sediments are an impressive visual example of the rich geologic history of Yellowstone. Wildflowers often fill the floodplain of the creek and offer nice opportunities for a creekside snack or a cool dip. Lava Creek is a clear cold creek, providing great fish habitat, while lush islands provide forage for large game like elk, bison and bears. Remember to give all these animals plenty of space if you encounter them on the trails. The trail provides great views of Undinde Falls. Once you reach the falls, simply return to the trailhead on the Lava Creek Trail.

Lava Creek flows over Undine Falls in three steps for about 65 feet. Flows are highest in the spring due to snowmelt, making Undine Falls a popular place for early season visitors. It can also be viewed in the winter because it is on one of the few roads that is open in the park during the winter months.