Overview *References made from "The Climber's Guide to the Olympic Mountains" (CGOM) by Olympic Mountain Rescue unless otherwise stated.  Pershing Massif from Mt Bretherton
Mt. Pershing is actually a massif composed of 3 summits: North, Middle, and South (main summit). The rock is composed of pillow basalt (magma that erupts on the sea floor and cools very rapidly) and tends to be quite juggy. One has difficulty finding cracks for wedge or camming type protection, however, slings over horns can be readily (though sometimes precariously) utillized.
The peak is on the north side of an east facing horseshoe of peaks that form the southeastern edge of major alpine territory in the Olympic Range. The major peaks of this horseshoe include Mounts Washington and Ellinor on the south, a minor conecting ridge on the west, and Mounts Pershing and Jefferson (Thorson Peak) on the north. Jefferson Creek flow east from the middle of this horseshoe on its way to Hood Canal.
From the summit one can listen to the roar of Jefferson Creek in the valley on the south, or to that of the Hamma Hamma River on the north. "Hamma Hamma" is the native word for "Big Stink." The foul smell was from the rotting corspes of salmon after they had spawned(Olympic Trail Guide by Robert Wood, pg. 158). Both streams flow into Hood Canal.
Mt. Pershing was first climbed by D. Dooley, R. Henderson, W. Ingalls, and R. Mandelhorn in 1939. All three peaks were climbed the same day (CGOM, pg 54).
 Pershing rises above the Hamma Hamma River Valley
Getting There*Route descriptions taken from "Olympic Mountains Trail Guide" pgs. 149 and 159.
Take U.S. 101 along Hood Canal to the Hamma Hamm Road (FSR #25 formerly 2490) to where it crosses Cabin Creek and forms a junction with FSR #2480 at 6.3 miles (10.1 km).
For routes on the north side, it is best to drive to the end of the Hamma Hamma River road (FSR #25) at the Mildred Lakes Trailhead (13.1 miles/ 21.1 km).
For routes on the south side, turn left on FSR 2480 and follow it to its junction with FSR 2401. Follow this road past Jefferson Lake to where it makes a sharp turn as it crosses Jefferson Creek. Find the faint trail (really only a climbers waypath) on the north side of the creek.
Red TapeA Northwest Forest Pass is required to park at the Mildred Lakes Trailhead.
Whether one is required for the Jefferson Creek approach is coming soon.
When To Climb
May through October is the ideal time to climb Mt. Pershing. The area receives heavy avalanche activity during the winter months, though winter climbs are feasible. By June, the slide alder melts out and creats quite an obstacle just below the subalpine zone.
As with all alpine climbs in this area, expect severe conditions any time of year. Though snow storms are uncommon at this elevation in the summer, they are possible. A 70 degree day can dip below freezing at night in the higher parts of this peak. Be prepared for wet, windy, and cold weather.
Keep in mind that in Western Washington, May and June (for those of us who live here, we know it can be all year long) are still in the rainy season, which often resumes in October.
Pershing from Ellinor |
CampingIn the summer, Mt. Pershing can be done in a long day. Because of the steepness of the slopes, there are few places to pitch a tent. Bivy gear may be more practical.
One can camp at the Hamma Hamma Camp Ground or the Lena Creek Campground (National Forest) for a $10 per night.
Mountain ConditionsFor current conditions contact:
Hood Canal Ranger District South
150 N. Lake Cushman Rd.
P.O. Box 68
Hoodsport, WA 98548
(360) 877-5254
TDD (360) 877-5254
Contact: Susan Graham
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