Summiting Idaho's Highest Peak

Beginning at 7,200 ft the trail starts out in the trees for the first .5 mile. After a steep climb you reach a small saddle at about 8,600 ft. From here you'll continue the steep ascent (with a few switchbacks) until you reach the treeline. After you bust out the 3,000+ ft of gain from the small saddle, you will be at the base of 'Chicken Out Ridge.' This is where the fun begins!

Slow and steady, the best way to approach the ridge is by going straight up and over - more injuries have occurred from people trying to avoid it and meandering around the side of the ridge. If you are afraid of heights and/or high exposure, I recommend stopping your hike here - there are still amazing views from the base of the ridge. Once you climb up, there are a few 'humps' on the ridge before you down climb a 20-foot pitch onto the 'crux.'

The trail narrows leading you to the final push to the summit. Although the trial is fairly well defined, it is composed mostly of loose rock/snow and is very steep at this point. After approximately 800 ft of additional gain (which will feel like an eternity) you will reach the summit - 12,668 ft. Sign the summit registry, pose for a picture with the American flag, and enjoy a nice lunch before making the grueling trek back down. Take it slow - 5,500 ft in 3.5 miles will have your knees crying - I recommend a soak in one of Idaho's many natural hot springs afterwards, with a well-deserved beer of course!