Of all of Idaho’s stunning mountains, it seems strange that our state’s tallest peak — Borah Peak, a.k.a. Mount Borah — would receive so little attention, especially compared to its Sawtooth sister range to the west. But Mt. Borah’s home in Idaho’s Lost River Range is a location surprisingly overlooked by climbers, photographers, and adventurers alike. While exceedingly humble, rather than gloriously photogenic as it rises up from a sagebrush valley in the south-central part of the state, Borah nevertheless dominates all other peaks in Idaho as a bucket list must-do.

Today, we think it’s time to reacquaint you with this rocky, towering gem in all of its glory and give you just a taste of why a trip here is worth the effort!

At 12,662 feet, Mount Borah towers over the surrounding landscape.
Charles (Chuck) Peterson/Flickr
Tucked away near Challis and set within the Challis National Forest, the "heart of Idaho" wasn't named Mount Borah until 1934, after prominent Idaho senator William Borah. To get a good look at Borah in all of its beauty, a late fall drive on the Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway is an excellent way to drink in the scenery.
You might also remember the devastating Borah Earthquake of 1983, which caused the peak to grow by 9-12 feet.
erin_pass/Flickr
Some say the 7.3 quake actually caused the valley to settle by that amount. But either way, the quake left a permanent scar on the western flank of the mountain -- a 23-mile fault scarp that opened up like a zipper on that fateful day in October and remains visible to this day.
One of only nine "12ers" in the state, Borah is both overlooked as a climbing destination because of the relative ease of the hike and sought out due to its height.
Bens I World/YouTube
What's unique about this climb is that you'll start in sagebrush fields and find yourself in gentle timber slopes in seemingly no time at all. But while the hike may be relatively easy for experienced climbers and has been undertaken by thousands of novices, don't underestimate the stamina needed! This is a dangerous climb, no matter the skill level.

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But once you reach the summit, the views are absolutely remarkable.
Bens I World/YouTube
There are multiple ways to reach the top, but none of them bypass what is known as Chicken-Out Ridge.
Matthew Pintar/Flickr
This part of the mountain is less of a hike and more of a steep climb-scramble. As the name suggests, this is where many climbers turn back due to the sheer danger.
Reaching the top is a sight for sore eyes (and legs) that will take your breath away.
Clayton Doty/Flickr
Once there, do a 360 and let the beauty of Borah's fellow peaks wash over you.
Jocelyn Catterson/Flickr
Make it your goal to touch each of Idaho's corners, and then add the best view in the state to your bucket list as well. You won't regret it!

Ready for a closer look? Check out these videos to see what you’re in for, starting with Chicken-Out Ridge.

Borah has been climbed in every season, so it’s never too late to take on this quintessentially Idaho challenge. Uniquely, Bob Boyles holds the record for the most completed climbs; 30, to be exact. Now, are you ready to tackle the “roof of Idaho” and beat that record?

While you’re at it, be sure to make this unforgettable journey to the Center of Idaho!

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