Athena (Olympic Mountains)

Athena is a subpeak located within the Olympic Mountains of Washington state. It is situated in the Bailey Range, a rugged and heavily glaciated area known for its challenging mountaineering terrain. While not one of the highest peaks in the Olympic Range, Athena presents significant climbing challenges due to its steep rock faces, ice formations, and remote location.

Access to Athena generally requires multi-day backpacking trips and technical climbing skills, including experience with glacier travel, rock climbing, and route finding. Climbers often approach Athena from various trailheads leading into the Olympic National Park backcountry.

The peak's name, like many features in the Olympic Mountains, reflects a classical influence, referencing the Greek goddess of wisdom, handicraft, and warfare. The origin of the name and the person or group who assigned it is not widely documented.

The surrounding area is characterized by dense forests at lower elevations, transitioning to alpine meadows and exposed rock faces higher up. Wildlife in the area includes black bears, deer, mountain goats (introduced), and various bird species. Due to its location within Olympic National Park, the area around Athena is protected, preserving its wilderness character.