What is the condition of the road leading to the Tubal Cain Trailhead?

The road is described as rough and potholed, particularly in sections about 6-8 miles from the trailhead. However, it is considered passable for most vehicles if driven slowly and carefully, as reported on [August 20](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-26.142604398026), [August 7](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-10.194030250924), and July 29.

What are the recent reports on bug activity?

Bug activity has varied. One report from [August 20](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-26.142604398026) noted bugs were an annoyance, while others from [August 8](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-12.113931150326), July 29, and July 18 indicated bugs were not too bad or nonexistent.

Are there any specific trail obstacles or conditions to be aware of?

The trail itself is generally in good condition and well-maintained. Some reports mention minor obstacles posing few problems, and the trail up Buckhorn Mountain can be slippery stones on steep surfaces requiring some scrambling.

What is the status of parking at the Tubal Cain Trailhead?

Parking availability seems to be generally good, with reports of only a few cars or up to 8 cars present upon arrival at various times in late July and August. One report on [August 7](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-10.194030250924) mentioned most spots were taken by Friday afternoon, suggesting it can get busy.

Tubal Cain Mine to Buckhorn Lake

Olympic Peninsula

updated 1 month ago

The Tubal Cain Mine to Buckhorn Lake trail is generally in good condition, with no snow reported as of August 20. The primary concern for hikers is the condition of Forest Road 2880 leading to the Tubal Cain Trailhead, which is described as rough and potholed, though passable for most vehicles if driven slowly and attentively, as noted on August 20 and July 29. Bugs have been an annoyance for some, with reports on August 20, but others found them not too bad or non-existent on August 8 and July 18. Buckhorn Lake itself was noted as being low in late July.

Generated from 13 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Tubal Cain Mine to Buckhorn Lake

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 1 month ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

No trip reports on this trail in 1 month, so everything below is at least that old.

The road is described as rough and potholed, particularly in sections about 6-8 miles from the trailhead. However, it is considered passable for most vehicles if driven slowly and carefully, as reported on August 20, August 7, and July 29.