Big Rock Candy Mountain Approach

So I'm thinking of heading to BRCM in the next few days, but I'm really confused about the approach to this thing. I have a Subaru forester, not a 4WD. Is it possible to drive from the east side or the west side, or do I have to rent a truck? How long is the walk in? Thanks MP!

Driving in from the east on forest service roads 360, 51, and 205, I believe those numbers are right, will require a vehicle with clearance. As I recall there are a few sections that are pretty rough but the majority of the road is fine. I can't recall exactly where the rough sections are but I know the worst part is pretty close to the BRCM. you might be able to drive part way and mountain bike or hike the rest. sorry it's been almost a decade since I was there.

don't know anything about the west side approach.

I've done the west side approach twice, as described here on MP. It's easy on the car.

I don't remember the exact road numbers from the east, but it was rough in a few sections and it was a slow, somewhat tedious drive. I believe we used a Xterra and the 4wd was definitely needed.

I've also approached from the west. I think we parked somewhere along the dirt road that takes you to the Goose Creek Trailhead. Then we just walked cross country towards BRCM. We eventually dropped down to the river and forded it. I'm short...5'5" and I don't think it was much more then knee deep. This approach is definitely easier on your vehicle...but it makes for a long day, especially the hike out.

From the west, it's car friendly. I got skunked that way once because the water was too high and we ended up climbing on Tick Dome instead. In August, I think you'll be fine.

From the west, you're going to need something capable.

I'd attempt it in my wife's 94' Legacy with 275k and much rust, because there wouldn't be much to lose. I wouldn't do it in a newer one.

If you think outside the box, there are options

Thanks all! So maybe the west? How long is the approach from that side--an hour? 90 min?

Recenlty went in from the East. It was an adventure in itself in 4th Gen 4Runner that had normal street tires on it. Had to get a running start for a couple of obsticles (heading back out). And there's also an obsticle where you could put some nasty scrapes & dents in the side of your rig. Totally doable, just be prepared. Off road tires would be nice too. The secions I had to get momentum for were wet gullies with downed trees to fill the wheel ruts. I was just a little shy on articulation to craw it.

I'd count on 90-120 mins from the west

Great, thanks guys for the beta!