Thanks for the comments, fellas.
The power of that water was really impressive. I camped within earshot of the creek and throughout the night I could hear kind of a grind and moan sound of what I surmised were boulders being pushed around by the water.
The mileage was relatively short and I’ve been through this area before so I thought I’d make it interesting by exploring cross country. I’ll chalk it up to a win overall because I did see some inspiring country that I hadn’t in my previous trips here, but boy the manzanita was thick and had me second guessing my route choices. Regardless, I did have a wonderful time.
I only saw two day hikers near the trailhead and that was it. Plenty of time to think and sort out life’s problems.
I glimpsed a bear, maybe two, and a few hawks. Tons of lizards. No mosquitoes!