
Trip
Day Hike - Buckhorn Mountain
Buckhorn Mountain loop, starting at the Tubal Cain trailhead, travelling over Buckhorn Pass and down to the Dungeness River trail past the Boulder Shelter. 16 miles, 3,700’ elevation gain, 4,300 elevation loss. Requires a 4 mile car shuttle.
- Fri, Jul 11, 2025
- Foothills Hiking Committee
- Day Hiking
- Adults
- Very Strenuous
- Challenging
- Mileage: 16.0 mi
- Elevation Gain: 3,700 ft
- Pace: 2 mph
- 10 (9 capacity)
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
Let's visit the high and low elevations of the Buckhorn Wilderness with a loop through a variety of ecosystems and visiting its namesake peak. We'll follow the Tubal Cain trail, cross Silver Creek, then venture up a flower filled hillside to Buckhorn Pass. The boot path to Buckhorn Mountain is steep and rocky so folks can choose to wait at the pass if they desire. After taking in the views deep into the Olympics, we'll drop down to Marmot Pass, then begin our journey to the Dungeness River via the Boulder Shelter.
This will be a long, strenuous day. We will keep a moderate pace through the level forested sections and take our time on the steep grades. Expect to be on the trail for 10-11 hours. We will break for wildflowers, filling water, beautiful views, soaking our feet, and whatever else strikes our curiosity.
Meet at 7:30 am at the Dungeness River trailhead (https://maps.app.goo.gl/uBrLynDpoJhLLFQo7) ready to consolidate into fewer cars and drive 4 miles to the Tubal Cain trailhead. (https://maps.app.goo.gl/TMGUBggDocbY5qBD8). If your drive requires a ferry, you will need to stay somewhere nearby. We will aim to be hiking by 8:00 am.
The forest service road is long and rough, about an hour from the turnoff at Hwy 101. High clearance vehicles are recommended, though reports note that all cars can navigate it with care.
NW Forest Pass required.
Leader will be staying in the area July 9-11, and is offering another hike on Wednesday, July 9th to Upper Royal Basin.
Marmot Pass & Buckhorn Mountain
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Custom Correct Buckhorn Wilderness
Green Trails Tyler Peak No. 136
Green Trails Olympic Mountains East No. 168S
Trails Illustrated Olympic National Park - See full route/place details.
Required Equipment
- Navigation
- Headlamp
- Sun protection
- First aid
- Knife
- Fire
- Shelter
- Extra food
- Extra water
- Extra clothes