The best walks and hikes in Borah Peak Wilderness Study Area
5.0
(2)
57
hikers
8
hikes
Hiking in Borah Peak Wilderness Study Area offers challenging routes through Idaho's highest and most rugged terrain, centered around Borah Peak. The region is characterized by dramatic landscapes, including steep ridgelines, bare limestone slabs, and the prominent Lost River Range. Hikers encounter significant elevation gains and exposed sections, providing panoramic views of surrounding mountain ranges and the Lost River Valley. Geological features like the Three Forks formation and the visible scar from the 1983 Borah Peak earthquake are also present.
Best hiking trails in Borah Peak Wilderness Study Area
- The most popular hiking route is Chicken Out Ridge — Borah Peak, a 7.2 miles (11.6 km) trail that takes about 7 hours 29 minutes to complete. This route features the challenging Class 4 arête known as "Chicken-Out Ridge."
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Borah Peak Trail — Salmon-Challis National Forest, a difficult 7.9 miles (12.7 km) path. This trail ascends Borah Peak, Idaho's highest point, offering extensive views.
- Local hikers also love the Leatherman Peak Loop from Sawmill Gulch Road — Lost River Range, an 8.4 miles (13.5 km) trail leading through the rugged Lost River Range, often completed in about 6 hours 22 minutes.
- Hiking in Borah Peak Wilderness Study Area is defined by high-altitude peaks, exposed ridgelines, and vast wilderness areas. The network offers options primarily for experienced hikers seeking challenging ascents and remote exploration.
- The routes in Borah Peak Wilderness Study Area are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 2 reviews. More than 50 hikers have used komoot to explore Borah Peak Wilderness Study Area's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
28
hikers
11.6km
07:29
1,320m
1,320m
Embark on the Borah Peak Trail for a truly demanding hiking experience, leading you to Idaho's highest point. This difficult route spans 7.2 miles (11.6 km) and challenges you with a significant 4336 feet (1322 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 7 hours and 29 minutes to complete. You will begin your ascent through wooded areas dotted with sagebrush and Bristlecone Pines, transitioning to a rocky path above the treeline that opens up to expansive 360-degree views of the Lost River Range and Pioneer Mountains.
For a successful summit, plan your visit for late summer or early autumn when snow has largely melted, as early season conditions, particularly on Chicken-Out Ridge, might necessitate mountaineering gear. Starting your hike early in the morning is highly recommended to avoid both weekend crowds and the potential for afternoon thunderstorms. Be aware that this trail is popular, especially on weekends, so an early start also helps secure parking and a more serene experience.
The Borah Peak Trail is renowned for its infamous Chicken-Out Ridge, a Class 3/4 scramble that presents a thrilling and memorable challenge on your way to the top. This section requires careful navigation and a head for heights, rewarding you with unparalleled vistas from the summit across Idaho's vast mountainous landscape. It is a defining feature that sets this climb apart, making it a bucket-list hike for many experienced adventurers.
5.0
(1)
26
hikers
12.7km
08:34
1,540m
1,540m
Embark on the Borah Peak Trail, a challenging hike that takes you through varied terrain to Idaho's highest point. You will cover 7.9 miles (12.7 km) with a significant elevation gain of 5038 feet (1536 metres), a journey estimated to take around 8 hours and 34 minutes. The route begins with a steep climb through a wooded valley before transitioning to rocky landscapes, culminating in the technical scramble across Chicken Out Ridge, which offers exposed views before the final push to the summit. This difficult trail promises a demanding yet rewarding experience for seasoned hikers.
Planning your ascent requires careful consideration, as the best time to hike Borah Peak Trail is typically from late June to early September when snow conditions are optimal. Attempting the route earlier in the season may necessitate specialized mountaineering gear like an ice axe and crampons due to lingering snow and ice. No permits are required for this hike, but always check local conditions before you go to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Be prepared for a full day on the mountain, starting early to allow ample time for the climb and descent.
Borah Peak stands as a prominent landmark within the Salmon-Challis National Forest, offering unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views of the Lost River Range and the surrounding wilderness from its summit. This trail is renowned for its rugged beauty and the sense of accomplishment it provides. The unique geological features and the sheer scale of the landscape make it a standout experience for anyone looking to conquer a high-altitude challenge in the region.
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13.5km
06:27
1,510m
1,510m
Embark on the Leatherman Peak Loop, a difficult 8.4-mile (13.5 km) hike that challenges you with 4963 feet (1513 metres) of elevation gain over an estimated 6 hours and 27 minutes. The route begins by winding through a wooded area next to a clear creek before opening up into a wide clearing. From this point, you'll see Leatherman Pass clearly, with Leatherman Peak standing tall to your left. The climb then takes you into a cirque, followed by steep sections of scree and talus, leading to rugged Class 3 terrain as you approach the summit.
To reach the trailhead on Sawmill Gulch Road (FS-411), you will need a high-clearance vehicle; a 4x4 is even better because of the road's rough state. This is a very strenuous and challenging hike, so be ready for steep, loose scree and talus, especially higher up the mountain. Good route-finding skills are crucial for this adventure. Starting your hike early in the day is highly recommended to ensure you have enough time to complete the demanding loop safely.
This trail leads you to Idaho's second-highest peak, offering a truly rewarding adventure for experienced hikers. From the summit of Leatherman Peak, you will be treated to expansive views of Borah Peak, Mount Idaho, White Cap Peak, and the vast Lost River Range. You can also spot Pass Lake shimmering below, adding to the scenic reward after your strenuous climb.
12.0km
06:04
1,470m
1,470m
Embark on the Mount Idaho Trail, a difficult 7.5 miles (12.0 km) hike that climbs 4839 feet (1475 metres) over an estimated 6 hours and 3 minutes. The route begins gently through sagebrush and forested areas, but soon turns into a steep ascent. You will encounter Class 3 scrambling, loose scree, and talus fields, often guided by cairns where the path becomes less clear. Reaching the summit of Mount Idaho rewards you with sweeping views of Borah Peak and the vast Lost River Range.
Prepare for challenging route finding on this demanding trail. Depending on the season, you might encounter snowfields, so check conditions before you go. Due to loose rock and Class 3 scrambling sections, consider bringing a helmet and grippy gloves for added safety. Plan your visit carefully to account for the significant elevation gain and varied terrain.
This challenging ascent leads you to Mount Idaho, which stands as the seventh highest peak in the state. The varied terrain, from sagebrush to rock pillars, makes this a classic hike within the Lost River Range. From the summit, you can enjoy expansive views of Borah Peak and the surrounding wilderness area.
1
hikers
12.3km
06:11
1,500m
1,500m
Prepare for a demanding ascent on the Mount Church and Donaldson Peak Trail, a difficult hike that covers 7.6 miles (12.3 km). You will conquer a significant 4932 feet (1503 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 6 hours and 11 minutes to complete. As you climb, the terrain becomes increasingly rugged, leading you through the dramatic Lost River Range. The experience is defined by the striking verticality of Mount Church and Donaldson Peak themselves, with sweeping vistas opening up to reveal surrounding summits like Leatherman Peak and Mount Breitenbach. Look for a distinctive natural arch tucked into the saddle between the two main peaks, a unique feature along this challenging route.
This strenuous trail demands careful planning and preparation. Expect sections with unstable rock, and be ready for difficult route finding, especially on exposed ridge sections. A helmet is highly recommended due to the potential for rockfall, and you should be aware that snow and ice can make the ridge particularly treacherous during certain seasons. Always check current conditions before you go, and ensure you have adequate navigation skills and gear for a high-alpine environment.
This route stands out for its raw, untamed beauty within Idaho's Salmon-Challis National Forest. The unique geological formations of the Lost River Range, with their impressive sheer faces, make this a distinctive high-country adventure. It offers a true wilderness experience, far from developed areas, allowing you to immerse yourself in the solitude and grandeur of the Idaho mountains. This trail is a prime example of the challenging and rewarding hiking opportunities available in this remote region.
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Tips from the Community
Mount Idaho is the seventh highest peak in Idaho and one of the nine 12'ers. You will find spectacular views of Borah Peak to the north and Leatherman Peak to the south.
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The trail up Mount Idaho is a class 3 scramble that can become a class 4 scramble in places if you don't have great route-finding skills. Remember to bring gloves for the scree, and bring bug spray for mosquitos in the wet season. The trailhead is relatively easy to get to and the views from the ridge are spectacular.
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Leatherman Peak is the second highest peak in Idaho at over 12,200 ft. It is named after Henry Leatherman, a pioneer from the 1860's. From the top you get spectacular views of the Lost River range.
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The hike up Leatherman Peak from the west requires a difficult class 4 scree scramble up the ridge to the peak. The is hike is much more challenging than the hike to Leatherman Peak from the north, but you can make it easier by taking the more standard trail (used for the descent of this route, to the north of Leatherman Peak) both up and down.
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The views from Donaldson Peak are spectacular. This is a great turn-around spot if you are underprepared for the full ridge climb to Mount Church. Be sure to bring helmets and gloves for the steep scree section leading up to the ridgeline. Donaldson Peak is the eighth highest peak in Idaho and clocks in at just over 12,000 ft.
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Mount Church is the third highest peak in Idaho at 12,200 ft. The peak is unofficially named after Frank Church, Idaho Senator. You will find spectacular views at the summit.
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The trail starts with a walk through the forest and meadow to the scree fields. Be sure to bring helmets and gloves for the scree, since there is a steep section near the ridge where falling scree can be dangerous without proper protection.
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Chicken Out Ridge is a narrow arête that leads to the summit of Idaho's highest point, Borah Peak. It is a challenging scramble and requires a decent head for heights. Experienced hikers who enjoy a bit of an adrenaline rush will revel in the ascent. If you are attempting the ascent to Borah Peak, stick to the crest and do not take the faint bypass path to the left, as hikers have been known to get into difficulty by doing this. Remember: crest is best!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in the Borah Peak Wilderness Study Area?
There are 8 hiking routes documented in the Borah Peak Wilderness Study Area, ranging from moderate to difficult. These trails primarily cater to experienced hikers seeking challenging ascents and remote exploration.
What is the best time of year to hike in the Borah Peak Wilderness Study Area?
The ideal time for hiking and climbing is typically from early July through mid-August, when snow levels are at their lowest. Late August and early September can also offer good conditions, though the mountain is prone to thunderstorms and early snow accumulation during this period.
What are the typical difficulty levels of hikes in this region?
The Borah Peak Wilderness Study Area is known for its challenging terrain. Most routes are classified as difficult, featuring significant elevation gains, steep sections, and exposed ridgelines. There are also a couple of moderate options available, but no easy trails.
Are there any specific landmarks or natural features to look out for?
Absolutely. The most prominent feature is Borah Peak itself, Idaho's highest summit. Hikers on the standard route will encounter the infamous "Chicken-Out Ridge", a Class 4 arête requiring careful navigation. From the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Lemhi, Salmon River, Sawtooths, and other surrounding mountain ranges.
What kind of views can I expect from the trails?
The strenuous climbs are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views. From higher elevations, you can see vast expanses of the Lost River Valley, which lies over a mile below, and numerous surrounding mountain ranges like the Lemhi, Salmon River, White Clouds, Boulders, Sawtooths, Pioneer, and White Knob mountains.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in the Borah Peak Wilderness Study Area?
The Borah Peak Wilderness Study Area is primarily characterized by rugged, high-altitude terrain with significant elevation gains, making most routes challenging. There are no trails specifically designated as easy or family-friendly in this guide, as the area caters more to experienced hikers.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails?
While specific regulations for dogs can vary, wilderness study areas generally allow dogs, often requiring them to be on a leash. Given the challenging and exposed nature of many trails, ensure your dog is fit for such conditions and that you carry enough water for both of you.
What is the elevation gain like on the trails?
Hikers should be prepared for substantial elevation gains. For example, the standard route to Borah Peak gains over 5,200 feet (1,604 meters) in just 3.5 to 4 miles. Other difficult routes like Borah Peak Trail — Salmon-Challis National Forest involve over 1,500 meters of ascent.
Are there any loop trails available?
Yes, there is at least one notable loop trail: the Leatherman Peak Loop from Sawmill Gulch Road — Lost River Range. This 8.4-mile route offers a challenging circular experience through the rugged Lost River Range.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Borah Peak Wilderness Study Area?
The trails in Borah Peak Wilderness Study Area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the dramatic landscapes, the sense of solitude, and the rewarding panoramic views from the summits, despite the challenging nature of the ascents.
Are there any other significant peaks to hike besides Borah Peak?
Yes, the region offers other challenging ascents. You can explore routes like Leatherman Peak Loop from Sawmill Gulch Road — Lost River Range, Mount Idaho — Lost River Range, and Mount Church and Donaldson Peak — Salmon-Challis National Forest, all offering similar rugged experiences within the Lost River Range.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
While specific parking details for each trailhead are not provided, access to the Borah Peak Wilderness Study Area typically involves driving to designated trailheads. Given the remote nature of the area, it's advisable to research specific trailhead access and parking availability before your visit.
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