Take the trail due west from the Kite Lake parking area. This trail leads you to Lake Emma on Mount Democrat's south slopes. As the trail climbs into the broad basin between Democrat on your right and Buckskin on your left, look for a spot beyond the willows that will get you across the grassy and marshy flats on the basin. Depart the trail, cross the stream and arc your way due south across this potentially soggy area. Good route finding will avoid a sloppy experience.

Nasty loose gullies and rock walls block easy access to a higher bench. Proceed a bit east to tundra slopes. Climb steep tundra to the power line. Once beneath the powerline, follow it along the tundra bench due west, intersecting Buckskin's north ridge just south of the low point.

Climb toward Buckskin's summit, staying on the ridge crest to avoid loose rock conditions. This Class 2 climb is surprisingly solid and dramatic, bypassing deep chasms and offering several sections of steep scrambling.

From the summit, follow the ridge line due southeast (Class 2) to Buckskin's east summit. Continue on the ridge to an orange spot. Descend just to right of the orange spot on solid rock and tundra back to the powerline and retrace your route back to your vehicle.

DISTANCE: 3.5 miles (4 miles if you park just below Kite Lake)
GAIN: 1,795'

Essential Gear

SUMMER & FALL: Standard dayhike gear will do.

SPRING: Winter clothing, ice axe and crampons strongly recommended. A glissade down the northeast slopes of the mountain is a pleasant possibility.

WINTER: Winter clothing, ice axe and crampons. Avalanche danger would be considerable, so check conditions before proceeding. This would make a good ski route as well.

Miscellaneous Info

If you have information about this route that doesn't pertain to any of the other sections, please add it here.