Gunn Peak
Central CascadesBest Jul–Sep
A 4,900-foot scramble up Class 3-4 rock to a 6,240-foot summit above the Barclay Creek valley.
About This Trail
Gunn Peak rises 6,240 feet above the Barclay Creek valley, directly across from Baring Mountain. The route is not a maintained trail. It follows a climbers' path that gains 4,900 feet in 3.75 miles through forest, talus, and Class 3-4 rock scrambling. Numerous search and rescue missions have occurred here.
The approach shares the Barclay Lake trailhead, branching off before the lake onto a steep boot path through forest. Above treeline, the route crosses exposed talus and reaches the "Infinity Tarn," a small alpine pool perched on a shelf with vertiginous views. Many parties turn back at the rock scramble section below the tarn. Beyond it, the final push involves exposed Class 3-4 climbing on loose rock to the summit.
The summit panorama spans Mount Index, Baring Mountain, Glacier Peak, and the Monte Cristo peaks. The alpine zone is extremely fragile. Pack out all waste including human waste using WAG bags. Stay on rock and durable surfaces.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“See more photo here Chutang and I started around 7 am on Saturday near the Barclay Creek Trailhead.”
Last report: Jun 3, 2026
Scorecard
Technical difficulty limits visitors. A handful of parties on summer weekends, many turning back at the scramble sections.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Class 3-4 rock scramble with significant exposure
- Loose rock throughout the upper route
- Numerous SAR missions have occurred on this route
- Extremely fragile alpine environment, pack out all waste
- Route-finding required above treeline
Getting There
Uses the Barclay Lake trailhead parking. Northwest Forest Pass required. Lot fills early on summer weekends.
Start before dawn to allow a full day. The route is long and technically demanding. Budget 10-14 hours round trip.
Recent Reports
I headed up the Gunn Peak Trail to see what conditions were like and ended up just going to the Infinity Tarn. Be forewarned if you head up here that this is more of a scramble than a hike.
SoaringEagle and I made an attempt on Gunn Peak on a warm sunny spring day. Lots of sloppy snow up high.
This is a report for ascent of Tailgunner and Wing Peak from the Barclay Lake trailhead - added it under Gunn Peak as these two ascents don't have entries on WTA. The path from Barclay Lake TH to the saddle is the same as to Gunn.
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