We loved this hike. For someone used to hiking central Cascades, this was very different. It's hard to beat the combination of Columbia gorge view, the snowy tops of Mt. Adams and Mt.Hood at the Hamilton ridge, cliffs, surprising openings between the rocks and trees. We got to the trailhead early at 7:00 a.m., as weather report predicted high temperatures. Overall the trail is well shaded. We did the lollipop loop clockwise, which allows for more gradual climb and awesome views on the steep descent. If you are worried a about maintaining sure footing on the steep rocky cliffside, then it's probably better to do it counter clockwise. The east side can be steep in places with rocky stair-like sections. Boots with good traction and poles will help.
I would also choose long pants or gaiters. We have seen a poison oak on some tighter parts of the loop. Social distancing may be hard on some narrow parts, but the majority of hikers used face coverings. If you are doing a shorter hike to the falls (the lollipop stick and not the loop), then there is less to worry about. The path there is wide and well trodden.
The trailhead has pretty decent bathrooms and a couple of outdoor taps that were useful to clean our poles with soap to eliminate any chance of poison oak residue. Plus, outdoor taps are perfect for social distancing.
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