Herman Creek Trailhead - Cascade Locks, OR
Herman Creek Trailhead: A Dog-Friendly Hiking Destination in Cascade Locks, Oregon
Nestled in the scenic Columbia River Gorge, Herman Creek Trailhead offers pet-friendly hiking opportunities within easy driving distance from Portland. Known for its peaceful setting, steady climbs, and rushing creek water, this trailhead is a favorite among locals seeking a dog-friendly getaway in Cascade Locks, Oregon. Whether you’re looking for a moderate out-and-back walk along the Herman Creek Bridge Trail or a challenging loop that connects to extensive Gorge trails, you and your furry companion will enjoy miles of exploration surrounded by nature.
With parking for around 18 cars, access to the Pacific Crest Trail, and lush forested areas, Herman Creek Trailhead is ideal for owners who love to hike with their dogs on-leash. While most of the trail is not shaded and amenities are minimal, visitors can relish tranquil weekday walks, wildflowers in spring, and the rewarding sound of rushing water. This is a great option for dog owners seeking a less-crowded, serene hiking destination in the Cascade Locks area.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the Herman Creek Trailhead connects to multiple trail systems, including the Pacific Crest Trail and other local loops.
- Where is the best place to park? There is a parking lot at the trailhead for about 18 cars. If it is full, parking is available along the Frontage road near the Herman Creek Campground sign.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Some portions of the hike are shaded by trees, but about two-thirds of the trail are sun-exposed.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The parking lot is usually about two-thirds full on a Saturday morning, but it is less crowded on weekdays.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Herman Creek offers multiple routing options and trail connections.
- Are bikes allowed? No, bikes are not allowed on the trail, making it safer and quieter for dogs and hikers.
Reviews
Pretry well maintained trail. Highway noise for the first 10 minutes, then turn a corner, it’s all nice and creek water running noise. I did out and back through Herman bridge trail then up to connector to PCT. Just less then 4miles. Steady climb easy/moderate hike. 2/3 of the trail has no shade. No one was here on weekdays. Only one other car.
Pretry well maintained trail. Highway noise for the first 10 minutes, then turn a corner, it’s all nice and creek water running noise. I did out and back through Herman bridge trail then up to connector to PCT. Just less then 4miles. Steady climb easy/moderate hike. 2/3 of the trail has no shade. No one was here on weekdays. Only one other car.
Pretry well maintained trail. Highway noise for the first 10 minutes, then turn a corner, it’s all nice and creek water running noise. I did out and back through Herman bridge trail then up to connector to PCT. Just less then 4miles. Steady climb easy/moderate hike. 2/3 of the trail has no shade. No one was here on weekdays. Only one other car.
Pretry well maintained trail. Highway noise for the first 10 minutes, then turn a corner, it’s all nice and creek water running noise. I did out and back through Herman bridge trail then up to connector to PCT. Just less then 4miles. Steady climb easy/moderate hike. 2/3 of the trail has no shade. No one was here on weekdays. Only one other car.
Parking lot holds about 18 cars. On a Saturday morning in April at 8am the lot was about two thirds full. If full, park along the Frontage road near the Herman Creek Campground sign and hike up to the trailhead. The hike to the pinnacles took me 1 hr each way.
Parking lot holds about 18 cars. On a Saturday morning in April at 8am the lot was about two thirds full. If full, park along the Frontage road near the Herman Creek Campground sign and hike up to the trailhead. The hike to the pinnacles took me 1 hr each way.
Parking lot holds about 18 cars. On a Saturday morning in April at 8am the lot was about two thirds full. If full, park along the Frontage road near the Herman Creek Campground sign and hike up to the trailhead. The hike to the pinnacles took me 1 hr each way.
Parking lot holds about 18 cars. On a Saturday morning in April at 8am the lot was about two thirds full. If full, park along the Frontage road near the Herman Creek Campground sign and hike up to the trailhead. The hike to the pinnacles took me 1 hr each way.
Not a bad hike at all. Several options to consider. The most straightforward is to hike about 1.5 miles in staying on the 406 and downhill at the fork (406e) until you reach Herman Creek bridge. Continue on to reach the PCT. Once there head west to check out Pacific crest falls.
Another option is to stay on the 406 (uphill at the fork) and continue to the 447 to make a nice loop out of Gorton Creek trail. I recommend doing the loop counter clockwise to avoid torture on the knees during decent.
(406>447>437>408west>406).
You can also take the 406 all the way to the top where it joins the PCT at Wahtam Lake. Be prepared, this is one of the toughest routes in the gorge.
Not a bad hike at all. Several options to consider. The most straightforward is to hike about 1.5 miles in staying on the 406 and downhill at the fork (406e) until you reach Herman Creek bridge. Continue on to reach the PCT. Once there head west to check out Pacific crest falls.
Another option is to stay on the 406 (uphill at the fork) and continue to the 447 to make a nice loop out of Gorton Creek trail. I recommend doing the loop counter clockwise to avoid torture on the knees during decent.
(406>447>437>408west>406).
You can also take the 406 all the way to the top where it joins the PCT at Wahtam Lake. Be prepared, this is one of the toughest routes in the gorge.