Headed out to Mount Dickerman yesterday in an attempt to take advantage of the good forecast and to beat the crowds on the upcoming long weekend. I succeeded on both fronts!
There were only 8 cars in the lot, split evenly between the Dickerman and Perry Creek trailheads. As previous reports stated, the restroom at Perry Creek is open (and remarkably clean) but the one at the Dickerman trailhead is still closed.
Hit the trail at 8:45 and began climbing. There isn't much time to warm up once you start hiking as the trail begins to climb steadily right from the start. The grade is pretty consistent the entire way so even though the switchbacks are relentless and never seem to end, this hike isn't nearly as punishing as nearby Gothic Basin. It was nice and cool in the forest and there were only a couple of blowdowns to easily navigate (2 under and 2 over). Aside from that the trail is very well maintained and I didn't reach consistent sun exposure until about 2 miles in. Once out of the forest a series of well placed steps (thanks WTA!) help make the remaining ascent less difficult. I only passed 3 other hikers on their way down and made it to the top in 2 hours and 20 minutes. There are multiple distinct areas to rest, refuel and take in the amazing views. The trail guide is right about two things: 1) the views of surrounding peaks are expansive in every direction and 2) the drop off from the ridge line is no joke.
I spent about 45 minutes up top before heading back down. Poles were useful on the descent given the steps going down and the loose rocks you contend with around some of them. Passed a few other pairs of hikers as I headed down but overall it was an extremely quiet day on the trail. After 2 hours on the way down, the parking lot had only grown by about 5 or 6 cars since I started. Not sure if Dickerman is less popular (hard to believe given the reward at the top) or if it was a combination of school starting and the long weekend ahead, but I was pleasantly surprised at the lack of crowds.
Mildly accurate stats from my Garmin: 2:20 up, 4.39 miles, 3700 ft of gain, 1:59 back down.
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