Oregon Hikers

Is this is gopher snake? Is it safe to handle these, for both of us?

Yes and yes. Specifically it's a bull snake, which is a subspecies of gopher snake. They are very docile and safe to handle. You don't need to grab them behind the head as they will not bite, and it wouldn't hurt much if they did.
Here's one I moved off the road in Nevada last week...

This one did seem docile which is why I was tempted to pick him up. I had no thought of grabbing him roughly. Thanks.

Don't try to pick up garter snakes. Those things get ornery and try to bite.

Gopher snakes seem calm around humans but they are notoriously aggressive towards rattlesnakes since they compete for the same food sources. They will not allow a rattler anywhere near their territory. Old timers used to like having one around their cabin as they not only took care of the mice but they would feel safe stepping out in the morning.

That's quite interesting. I'll be even more happy the next time I see one.