The highest of the jagged peaks encircling the Index area,and also the high point of the Wild Sky Wilderness area, Gunn offers commanding views of the surrounding terrain as well as a real wilderness experience close to the big city. Though not high by Cascade standards, it`s low foothold and lack of a "trail" makes it a challenging peak. Gunn Ranks 29th on the Washington state top 200 prominence list. There are technical routes as well as a class 3 scramble to the summit. Some thick brush is encountered early on but once the path is located it is fairly simple to follow. This peak also recieves minimal visitation so there is a good chance of gaining some solitude and having the views all to oneself.
The peak is named after an early pioneer miner, Amos Gunn. Amos Gunn was the founder of the town of Index and also named Mount Index. The first ascent was made on July 18th, 1915 via Lewis creek. The party consisted of Dr. H.B. Hinman, Walter Eriksen and Louis Lesh; who were finally sucessful on thier fifth attempt of the peak.

Getting There

Take US Hwy 2 to the little town of Baring and turn N onto forest road 6024 heading towards the TH for Barclay Lake. At approx 4 mi. ( just short of the Barclay lake TH ) turn left on a little, narrow, spur road and follow this for several hundred feet to the end. There is a firepit and just enough room to park a couple cars. For the route, do not follow the abandoned road bed, instead find a faint trail heading E into the woods which leads to a log crossing across Barclay Cr.

Red Tape

Gunn lies in an unprotected area of the national forest so no special regulations apply. It is located in an area under the NW Forest Pass management so one would be required to park at the trailhead, although it might be questionable whether or not it is closer than a 1/4 from the TH. Be safe and have one.

When To Climb

The peak could be climbed in any season, though late Spring or early Summer seem to be the Seasons of choice due to minimal brush. The one problem with doing this climb too early would be the snow covered ledge near the summit. It could end the climb if not geared up to deal with it. Later in the year after the snow is gone could be more preferable since there will be a well beat in trail to follow all the way and no uncertainty about a snow covered ledge that could end the trip short of the summit.
Expect to encounter some degree of brush in the beginning. There are lots of young alder and minature closely packed evergreens as well as devils club & salmonberry to name a few.

Camping

Camping is possible right at the parking area and also again in the pretty little basin northeast of the 5400' saddle.

Mountain Conditions

Climbing reports from recent years can be found here:

http://www.climbingwashington.com/features/gunnpeak.htm

http://www.alpenthyme.org/alp/gunn/gunn.htm

Photos and weather links at www.mountainwerks.org/cma

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