Capitol State Forest - Sherman Creek Loop — Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2024

Hiked this loop starting about 1pm and ending at 5pm.  I followed the trail guide and took the McKenny trail out of the trailhead, then right on the Lost Valley Trail (not listed in the WTA drop down menu?), around the ridge to Mima Falls Tr, then back via the McKenny.  The guide mentions the two options on the Lost Valley Trl where it branches, but both sides take you along the trail - that's a hard turn left (switchback) to stay in the woods or there's a sign now if you go straight to a "Maintenance trail / access to D4720".  They do both meet again (where the trail crosses D4720) but figured I'd mention it and include a picture of that junction.  Also, I thought I'd be next to Sherman Creek for a few miles - you aren't, you gain elevation immediately after crossing the bridge from the trailhead and after that you can hear it and get a few peekaboo looks but that's it.  Also there are signs for timber auctions (two areas), so keep in mind at some point portions of this loop won't be accessible.   It's a nice loop, but not too many distant views and almost no wildlife.