Swung up to Buckhorn via Marmot Pass over the weekend. The road out is one of the best you'll find in the east Olympics. Minimum potholes/washboarding, some paved. Privy at the TH is well maintained/clean. Check the pass requirements before heading out, many I saw did not.
The trail out to the pass is in great shape. A few over-unders, no biggie. As you follow the Big Quilcene River up there are a plethora of water sources to filter right off the trail. Snowmelt is running right through Camp Mystery, anticipate a lot of mud if you plan to camp or hang out there. It seemed pretty busy, not many pads left. Some folks camped at the pass too. Between Camp Mystery and the pass, there are a few snowfields that could get sketchy early morning or later in the afternoon when slushy. On the way back I was happy to have brought my poles.
The pass to the top of Buckhorn is completely snow-free. It's a bit of a scree slog as you make the push to the top. However, jaw-dropping views to the south and the interior make it worth the extra effort! After a few false summits, you'll be at the block and just a short fun scramble to the top.
From the summit of Buckhorn, it was awesome to see the park and its array of peaks still covered in so much snow! Final thought, wildflowers are rocking. Tons of Glacier Lilies and Indian Paintbrush. On to the next one!
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