Borah Peak Trail

This trail is considered extremely difficult and strenuous, suitable only for experienced hikers with excellent physical fitness. It involves a significant elevation gain of over 5,200 vertical feet in just 4 to 4.2 miles, averaging nearly 1,300 feet per mile. The route includes steep, loose terrain and exposed scrambling sections.

Chicken-Out Ridge is a notorious section of the trail, a Class 3/4 scramble located around 11,200 to 11,300 feet. It's narrow, exposed, and requires careful climbing, with parts where a fall could be very serious. Many hikers turn back at this point due to its technical demands. Early in the season, it can be snow-covered, requiring mountaineering gear like an ice axe and crampons.

The best time to hike Borah Peak is typically in late summer and early autumn, when most of the snow has melted and weather conditions are generally more stable. Starting your hike very early in the morning is highly recommended to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and crowds, especially on weekends.

As of current information, there are no specific permits required for day hiking the Borah Peak Trail itself, nor are there entrance fees for the Salmon-Challis National Forest where it is located. However, always check the official Forest Service website for the latest regulations before your trip.

The trailhead for Borah Peak is accessible by car. There is a parking area available at the base of the mountain. Given the trail's popularity, especially on weekends, arriving early is crucial to secure a parking spot.

While dogs are generally permitted in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, the extreme difficulty and exposed scrambling sections, particularly Chicken Out Ridge, make this trail unsuitable for most dogs. It's highly recommended to leave your canine companions at home for their safety and yours.

The trail begins with a steep but defined path through wooded areas with sagebrush and Bristlecone Pines. As you gain elevation, it transitions above the treeline into open, rocky slopes. Expect sections of steep, loose dirt, followed by challenging loose limestone scree and talus, which can be very tiring. Beyond Chicken Out Ridge, the final push to the summit involves more steep sections over loose rocks and slabs.

The most notable landmark is Chicken Out Ridge, a challenging and exposed scramble. As you ascend, you'll also encounter the Borah Peak Viewpoint, offering stunning vistas. The summit itself provides panoramic 360-degree views of the surrounding Lost River Range, Pioneer Mountains, and Lemhi Range.

This is a full-day endeavor. While the komoot tour data estimates approximately 7.5 hours for the 11.6 km (7.2 miles) round trip, many hikers, especially those navigating the challenging sections, will take longer. Plan for 8-12 hours, depending on your pace, breaks, and comfort level with exposure.

Yes, the route primarily follows the Borah Peak Trail for its entire length. However, it also passes through sections of the False Left Trail, Foolish Bypass, and White Gully, which are official trails in the area.

Given the trail's difficulty and exposure, pack essentials for a strenuous alpine hike. This includes plenty of water (there's no water source on the trail), high-energy snacks, layers of clothing for varying temperatures, rain gear, sun protection, a headlamp, a first-aid kit, and sturdy hiking boots. If hiking early season, an ice axe and crampons may be necessary for Chicken Out Ridge.