This long hike up Herman Creek to Mud Lake is not for everyone, but it is a rewarding adventure. Remember, you don't have to hike the whole thing. Go as far as you feel able, and then turn back. Don't take on more than you should.

However much of this hike you choose to endure, the rewards are plentiful. Of course, different seasons offer different rewards, but spring and summer are a delight. Herman Creek trail head is the beginning of many outstanding hikes in the Gorge area, and this one has its own set of rewards.

After passing the Gordon Creek cutoff trail and the Nick Eaton Ridge cutoff trails, this hike up Herman Creek takes on an atmosphere of its own. As you slowly climb high above Herman Creek, you will pass through Oak forests, with some open areas of floral display. Then after you enter the Hatfield Wilderness, you begin to encounter streams of various sizes and challenges. Many of the streams have colorful waterfalls for your pleasure. Some just have lots of water and you may be challenged to get across. The later in the season you hike this trail, the less likely you are to have to worry about water.

On the other hand, drinking water can be a problem. On a hike this long, no matter the season, take plenty of drinking water. At about 4 miles you will come to the Casey Creek cutoff trail and a nice camp area. There is a short steep trail off to your right that will take you down towards Herman Creek and through one of the largest stands of Old Growth Forests left in the Columbia River Gorge... but maybe that should be another hike on another day??? So, shortly past this campsite you will cross Casey Creek and continue your gentile climb towards Mud Lake.

At about 7 miles is the intersection of Trail #410, which could provide you with an alternate route back, if you feel up to climbing another 1500' and following Nick Eaton Ridge back to the Gordon Creek cutoff trail that you encountered earlier on this hike. However, if you still possess your sanity, you may continue uphill towards Mud Lake.

About another 2 miles, after a short steep climb, you will see the Mud Lake sign nailed to a tree on your left, and at that point is it but a short downhill walk to the lake. Once again, it depends on the season you choose to do this journey as to the condition of the lake. It is in its prime in mid to late summer. I feel the rewarding views and the challenge are a fine reward. Enjoy!

Mud Lake

How to get there:

Herman Creek Trailhead: From the west, travel on I-84 to Exit #44/Cascade Locks. At the stop sign turn right/east and follow Wa-Na-Pa street through town. Continue under the freeway and turn left/east on Frontage Road (on the south side of the freeway) to the Herman Creek Campground sign.

From the east, take Exit #44/Cascade Locks. Immediately turn left and travel under the freeway. Turn left/east onto Frontage Road (on the south side of the freeway) to the Herman Creek Campground sign.

Follow the narrow, paved road that goes up to the campground (to the left) and trailhead (to the right). There is room to park at the trailhead, and along the road towards the campground, but don't block the campsites in the campground.

Sometimes in the winter the gate is closed but you can park along Frontage Road. Hike up the 1/2 mile paved road to the trailhead.