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Herman Creek Trail (#406)
This trail offers loop opportunities with the Pacific Crest Trail, Gorton Creek Trail, and Nick Eaton Ridge Trail.
Trail is a total of 11.2 miles long, including sections that extend into Mark O Hatfield Wilderness and the Mt. Hood National Forest. It goes through some of the best old-growth stands in the Gorge.
Trail enters the Wilderness from the junction with Gorton Creek Trail (#408).
At a Glance
| Permit Info: | Wilderness Permits are required when entering Mark O Hatfield Wilderness. Free permits are self-issued at the Wilderness boundary. |
|---|---|
| Open Season: | Year round, snow dependent |
| Usage: | Light-Medium |
| Restrictions: |
|
| Closest Towns: | Cascade Locks, OR |
| Passes: | A valid Recreation Pass is required at Herman Creek trailhead. |
| Operated By: | Forest Service |
| Information Center: | Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area |
General Information
Directions:From Portland, OR: Travel east on Interstate 84 to Cascade Locks, exit # 44. Drive under the interstate and through town, 1.8 miles to the eastbound entrance ramp. At the stop sign, cross the road and drive east 1.6 miles toward Oxbow Fish Hatchery, then on to Herman Creek Campground. The trailhead is at west end of the campground.
From Hood River, OR: Travel west on Interstate 84 to Herman Creek, exit # 47. Drive 0.6 mile west on Forest Lane to Herman Creek Campground. The trailhead is at the west end of the campground.
Activities
Day Hiking
Hiking to the junction with Casey Creek Trail 476 would make a good all day hike. To Casey Creek Trail 476 junction and back would be right at 8 miles.
Backpacking
Trail starts at Herman Creek Campground. You can camp along the way at Cedar Swamp or Mud Lake. Your hike can end at Wahtum Lake or you can make a loop on the Benson Plateau by using Pacific Crest Trail 200. Trail is 11.2 Miles Long.
| Difficulty Level: | Intermediate |
|---|
Horse Riding
Horse riding is allowed on certain trails in the area. Contact the local office for more information on which and when trails are opened for horses. And, as always, please stay on the existing trails and roadbeds!
Viewing Plants
Herman Creek Trail contains the largest surviving forest of old growth Douglas fir, cedar, and hemlock in the Columbia River Gorge.
Viewing Scenery
Waterfalls, moss carpeted creeks, sub-alpine lake and vistas.
Alerts & Warnings
- Slide on Larch Mountain Trail (#441)
- Microwave Tower Fire Closure/Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail Reopens
- Prescribed Fire Notice for Fall Burning
- Klickitat Mile One Overnight Use & Large Boat Launch Prohibition
- Concept Development for Mosier to The Dalles Trail Underway
- Drones prohibited in wilderness and select recreation sites
- Check road and weather conditions
Related Information
Highlights
Location