The time to do this trail is mid June because the first 2.5-3 miles will be lined with wild rhodedendrons making for a splendid pink tunnel - this part of the trail is quite easy. We decided to go up to Tull Canyon first. This is a .75 mile 750 gain trail that has some difficult spots - particularly on the way down. Once you top out, be careful to watch for the log crossing so you don't miss the trail. It used to be that the pond was much larger making it a bit more of a challenge to visit the plane crash. Now it is easy to get over there, and someone has moved most of the plane all over the place which made me sad to see. Also look for the remnants of the old mining camp. Enjoy the lovely views from this spot and check out the story of the crash.
After resting up a bit and having a pleasant lunch in the sun, we wandered back down and on over to the mine area. There were way more people on the trail and camping than I have ever seen. The mine is through the camping area, cross a stream, and scramble up the scree slope to the mine. It says not to go in, and it is wet so bring sturdy sandals and headlamp if you wish to take the risk. The scramble is steep and a bit slippery on the descent.
We then went through the camping area = many trails here so head toward the creek. You can cross on the logs or go up and over some stones just beyond them = depends on the amount of water which is the better choice. Look for the trail to the right and past a couple more campsites. It is not obvious here which way to continue to Buckhorn Lake. Take at least the first couple switchbacks even though they are long as it brings you to flower paradise and great views of Buckhorn. If
you want to continue to the lake, be aware that it is difficult to access that lake from anywhere but the one small campsite on the small lake. It can hold one tent. Other camping is above the Lake and has room for several tents if you don't mind being close together. We saw so many backpackers going in that I wondered how they could all fit in the small space. The only water beyond Tubal Cain Mine is around that lake or way around and down to Marmot Pass and Camp Mystery. Buckhorn Pass is a worthy destination as the view of surrounding peaks and flowers is astounding. It is also a bit easier to summit Buckhorn from this side as opposed to the Marmot Pass side.
Dave's GPS Track