92. Tumtum Peak, 4678' (S)
Tumtum is a relatively easy scramble. The peak is visible from the road to Paradise. The peak is treed, so the views are not spectacular from the top. The origin of the Tumtum name is uncertain.
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Driving
From the Nisqually Entrance, drive approximately 3 miles to the Kautz Creek parking area located on the south side of the road.
Route
Take the Kautz Creek trail to Kautz Creek and continue on the trail toward Indian Henrys Hunting Ground. At approximately 3000' (where the trail goes through a large cut log), leave the trail and head due west (bearing 270 degrees) toward a saddle at 3605'. If you cannot find the cut log, it is okay to leave the trail at any point around 3000'. Once you leave the trail, there is some minor traversing and there may be a few patches of devil’s club. Stay on the compass bearing, because the saddle is not very visible until you are on it. At the saddle (3600'), head up the ridge (in a southwest direction) to the summit. The entire way is wooded, and there are only peak-a-boo views from the Tumtum summit.
Comments
Crossing Kautz Creek can be challenging because there is only a log crossing, which can become slippery if there is snow or ice build up.
Vital Statistics: Tumtum Peak
Skill: Easy scramble
Beauty: 2
Effort: 2
Round-trip distance: 5.6 miles
Elevation gain: 2300'
Total time: 5 hours
Best season: Year-round
Equipment: Scramble gear
Tumtum Peak Topo
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