Herman Creek — Friday, Nov. 15, 2024

Herman Creek area was closed until recently due to the nearby Whiskey Creek fire.  Its open now (at least in part) and I decided to take it for a spin.   My route is from Herman Creek Trailhead to 406e, a shortcut to PCT.  Then along PCT to Dry Creek Falls, then return for a total out and back of 10 miles. 
The trail is in great shape-  no significant blowdown, slides or such.  Creeks along the trail are full of recent rain, but I was able to keep dry feet with regular hiking boots.  
The trail is a typical Gorge trail, with most elevation gain in the first mile.  Here, you climb maybe 1200 feet in the first mile, then descent to Herman Creek on 406e, then rise again up to PCT.  But once you're on PCT its a romp for a few miles to Dry Creek.  It makes the hike seem shorter and go faster because the climb is all up front, and the return is mostly a descent.  
I arrived at Herman Creek Trailhead at about 10:30 am Friday, and found four other cars in the lot.  But the trailhead is a starting point for several hikes, and I had the PCT to myself. 
I have to say that I take more stuff now-  an extra fleece shirt, beanie, socks and a headlamp.  Daylight starts fading at 3pm, so if anything happens on the trail you can be delayed and your hike turns into a cold dark slog.   Helps to be prepared.