Overview
Buckhorn Mountain is a moderate peak that affords dramatic views of nearby peaks (the Gargoyles, Warrior Peak, Mounts Constance/Mystery/Deception) and the expansive alpine terrain in the Olympic National Park further west. Though rarely climbed, it is an easy and accessible ascent relative to the other basaltic summits that line the eastern edge of the Olympic peninsula. It is named after the appearance of its 2 summits -- "antlers" nearly equal in elevation and separated by a smooth saddle. The southwest summit (2124.0m/6988') can be attained via a class 2 scramble (some use of hands required) from scenic Marmot Pass, while the northeast summit (2114.3m/6956') has a few relatively exposed class 3 sections (where some climbers may want to rope up). For hiking climbers, this peak is an easy side trip from a wonderful river-to-pass trail within the (dog-friendly) Buckhorn Wilderness.
Getting There
Drive highway 101 along Hood Canal to an intersection with Penny Creek Road about 1 mile S of the Quilcene ranger station. Turn W and drive through the big rock quarry to reach a fork at 1.4 miles. Stay left on Big Quilcene River Road which narrows to forest road 27, a single-lane, but mostly paved road that winds 9 miles up the Big Quilcene/Townsend Creek drainage to a junction with forest road 2750. Turn left onto 2750 and descend the dirt road 4.5 miles to the trail head (Upper Big Quilcene trail 833, 2500').
Hike up along the river, hopping downed trees and enjoying the Big Quilcene river. The trail diverges from the river and begins to rise at Shelter Rock Camp (3600', 2.5 miles). Emerge from the trees near 3.5 miles to traverse scree slopes on the S flanks of Iron Mountain and the NE half of Buckhorn Mountain. Near 4 miles (~5200'), look up to the saddle between the NE and SW summits of Buckhorn.
Camp on leveled foot of a prominent gravel slump about 100' (vertical) above the trail where there is water (at least in the early season), or proceed to Camp Mystery about 0.5 up the trail when it has melted out (usually after June). The slump camp is most convenient for direct ascents via the saddle, while Camp Mystery (or Marmot Pass itself) is better if approaching the mountain along the ridge from the WSW.
Red Tape
Other than a Forest Pass for parking and the trailhead register, there are no permits or fees required. The route is south facing and should be largely snow free in or after June.
When To Climb
Direct routes (via the saddle) are usually snow-free June-October. Marmot Pass and Camp Mystery often hold snow until mid-July.
One could get creative with couloirs (especially on the SW side of the NE summit) in winter, using snow shoes for the approach...
Mountain Conditions
Call the Buckhorn Wilderness: 360-765-2200 and ask about snow levels near trail 833 and Marmot Pass.
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