Idaho is home to nine peaks that boast impressive heights of over 12,000-feet. Some well-determined hikers make it their mission to hike them all, a feat that’s affectionately called the “Idaho 12ers Challenge.” Those who complete any of these challenging trails definitely earn themselves some bragging rights, especially if they bag the tallest peak in Idaho: Mount Borah. Considered one of the most strenuous trails in the state, the views from the top of this epic peak are worth every single step!
It's no easy feat getting to the top of Idaho's tallest peak, but there's no doubt that it's absolutely worth it if you do. The view from the top of Mount Borah is as good as it gets.
Located in the central section of the Lost River Range in Custer County, Mount Borah boast an elevation of a whopping 12,662-feet. Hiking to the top is a serious business that shouldn't be taken lightly.
The typical route to Mount Borah's peak involves climbing 5,262 vertical feet from the trailhead, all over just 3.5-miles. It's a very remote area, also, with just a few primitive walk-up campsites to be found at the trailhead.
One of the most prominent sections during the ascent to the top is accurately called "Chicken Out Ridge." This section earned its name for the fact that many hikers, dissuaded by the ridge's sheer cliffs and high exposure, decide to turn around here.
For those who persevere to the top, a stellar award awaits. At the summit, hikers are greeted by an impressive expanse of the rest of the Lost River Range and the Challis National Forest. On a clear day, the view seems to go on forever.
Oddly enough, the impressive mountain remained nameless for some time, as it was believed that Hyndman Peak was Idaho's tallest mountain. It was named after notable U.S. Senator William Borah when it was discovered that the mountain was taller than Hyndman in 1934.
Climbing Idaho's tallest peak definitely isn't for everyone, but what a treat that view from the top is! Visit Idaho has an excellent "Beginner's Guide to Climbing Mount Borah" that you should definitely check out if this is an item you'd like to check off your bucket list.
What do you think? Will you be adding the climb to Mount Borah to your bucket list? Have you bagged it already? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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