Buckhorn Wilderness

Quilcene Ranger District
Olympia National Forest

The Buckhorn Wilderness is located in the northeast portion of the Olympic National Forest. A patented mining claim involving 216 acres of private land is within the Wilderness. This Wilderness, the largest on the forest, includes very steep terrain ranging in elevation from 1,000 feet near the Gray Wolf River, to the summit of Mt. Fricaba at 7,134 feet. Other major peaks include Buckhorn Mountain, 6,988', Iron Mountain, 6,950' and Tyler Peak 6,350'. Barren ridges and steep, rocky cliffs and peaks are common in the higher elevations.

Stands of old-growth Douglas-fir, western hemlock and western redcedar occur on the lower slopes. At the higher elevations, subalpine fir and western white pine give way to alpine flowers.

The Gray Wolf, Dungeness and Big Quilcene Rivers are the major streams flowing through the Wilderness.

Size: 44,258 acres
Elevation Range: 1,000' to 7,134'
Wilderness Permit:None Required
Key Access Points:
F.S. Road 2750
F.S. Road 2860
Dungeness Trail #833
Big Quilcene Trail #833
Tubal Cain Trail #840

Recreation Opportunities

The Buckhorn Wilderness has excellent opportunities for camping, backpacking, horseback riding, hunting, and mountain climbing.

Over 67 miles of trail provide access to this Wilderness. The Gray Wolf trail #834, 9.1 miles, is classified as easy. The following trails are considered moderate: Dungeness #833, 8.1 miles; Tubal Cain #840, 8.6 miles; Big Quilcene #833, 5.3 miles; Silver Lake #842, 2.5 miles; and Mt. Townsend #839, 6.7 miles. The Tunnel Creek trail #841, 7.6 miles, is very difficult due to very steep grades on the Dosewallips side of the ridge. Most of the trails are open to pack and saddle stock. Check with the ranger station for trail closures.

Wilderness visitors should always carry rain gear and adequate clothing, food, and backpacking equipment. Proper boots and clothing should be worn.

Notice: Fires are prohibited above 3,500 feet elevation within the wilderness. Fires at Buckhorn, Silver, Goat, Harrison and Charlia Lakes are prohibited. Stoves only.