When I was up there camping last year (just down from the cable bridge) it was tipping down all day the evening I got there, but stopped overnight. The next day the falls were half the size and the river perhaps a foot lower! So crossing points can quickly disappear - and then re-appear!
But you're right to consider your lad on the bridge, I'm 5'10" and my arms were fully outstretched. In fact, even getting up on to it was a struggle - but probably says more about me and my flexibility! hehe
I guess most people go clockwise could be because the way up at the west end would be a long slow slog, but at the east end above the falls at least it's a short(ish) sharp shock.
It is a lovely walk though and despite all I read about the Devil's Ridge there was nothing to worry about really.