Buckhorn Mountain

Quilcene, Washington

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Details

Distance

12.26 miles

Elevation Gain

4429 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Rose Freeman

This steep and high alpine trail takes you above Marmot Pass to a red-rock summit with 360 views on a clear day. An unforgettable day hike or an incredible overnight destination!

The climb to Buckhorn Mountain above Marmot Pass is a must see for every PNW adventurer with the endurance to tackle nearly 14 miles and 4,400 feet of gain. Listen to the rushing waters of the Big Quilcene River as the trail gently traverses up 5.5 miles to Marmot Pass. Be sure to filter water at Camp Mystery, just below the final climb to Marmot Pass. This is the last water source until your return trip!

When you reach the pass, follow the ridge to the right and take the switchbacks up to Buckhorn Mountain. Take in the views of Mount Constance and the Olympics, Mount Rainier to the south, Glacier Peak to the east, and Mount Baker to the north. At the top, the trail gradually winds along the ridge to the true summit. In the spring, bright colored wildflowers paint the green slopes. The final steps are an easy scramble to the top of Buckhorn Mountain!

*Side note: If you decide to glissade down from any slopes on this hike, please take off your microspikes / crampons. Glissading with traction devices can cause serious injury or puncture holes in your leg.

If you live in Seattle, try to catch the Kingston-Edmonds ferry at sunset on your way home!

Check out my video of the hike!

Permits

Northwest Forest Pass required

Gear

10 Essentials

Microspikes in early season (April-May)

Trekking Poles

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Features

Photography

Hiking

Forest

River

Scenic

Wildflowers

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