This trail is open to foot and horse traffic only since it is located within the North Fork Umatilla Wilderness. The trail climbs briskly in the first 1.5 miles, about 1900′. The remaining 6.0 miles climbs only 300′ in elevation, gradually making its way through a series of mountain meadows. A panoramic view can be seen from the top of Buck Mountain.

Directions: From Pendleton: Lower trailhead: 33 miles east of Pendleton on the Umatilla River Road, approx. 11 miles east of Gibbon, continue past the Bar-M Ranch to Corporation Guard Station until you reach the Umatilla Forks day use area: go across the bridge past the campground and take the first left onto Forest Service Road #3200-045 which leads to the Buck Creek Kiwanis Organization Camp. The trailhead for the Buck Creek Trail is located at the end of the road. The buck mountain Trail takes off from the Buck creek Trail approx. 200 feet from the trailhead. There is limited parking at the trailhead. (No horse trailers, please)From Tollgate: Upper trailhead: From Highway 204, 8 miles south of Tollgate and 14 miles north of Elgin, turn west on Forest Service Road #31 (Summit Road) 4 miles. Turn right on Forest Service Road #3150 to the 035 spur road. Turn right on spur road 035. This is the Lake Creek Trail head. Follow Lake Creek trail 3/4 mile to the Buck Mountain Trail junction.

Seasonal Access: Normally Open: Spring-Fall

Facility Type: Trail