The Herman Creek Trail runs 11.1 miles from Herman Creek Campground to the PCT in the Mark O Hatfield Wilderness. Herman Creek supports the highest concentration of old growth fir, cedar and hemlock in the Columbia River Gorge.

Douglas Fir is the largest and tallest member of the pine family; it grows in a wide range of habitats and can exhibit a range of characteristics

The Herman Creek Trail is bisected by numerous streams, though just two notable (if not modest) waterfalls are easily accessible

'Old growth forest' definitions are evolving with new research, but can still generally be characterized as having been untouched for 150+ years, multiple canopy layers and large standing dead trees

Only a few short breaks in the timber create viewing lanes across the Herman Creek drainage

Douglas fir can live 500 - 1000 years and mature trees' thick bark can withstand periodic, low intensity fires

White oak, a member of the beech family, is one of only four oaks native to the west coast; it's considered a climax or sub-climax species that's generally intolerant of shade

Western Hemlock bark is high in tannins, which native people used for dyes and cleansing solutions

Diverse, mature forests distinguish the Herman Creek Trail

Oregon White Oak is an 'early successional' species that will be replaced by fir or bigleaf maple in the absence of fire

The Herman Creek Trail's mild grades are ideal for trail runners seeking longer distances and solitude in the backcountry