| Elevation | 12,668 ft/3,861 m |
| Subpeak | Borah Peak-North Peak (12,247 ft/3733 m) |
| Latitude/Longitude (WGS84) | 44° 8′ 15” N, 113° 46′ 52” W 44.137376, -113.781122 (Dec Deg) 277538 E 4890892 N, Zone 12 (UTM) |
| Country | United States |
| State/Province | Idaho |
Borah Peak, Idaho: The Rugged Beauty of the Gem State’s Highest Point
Tucked deep within Idaho’s Lost River Range, Borah Peak stands as a rugged and unyielding giant. At 12,668 feet, it’s not only Idaho’s highest point, but also a beloved proving ground for serious hikers, scramblers, and mountaineers. Borah Peak’s steep slopes, dramatic ridgelines, and notorious “Chicken Out Ridge” make it one of the most thrilling—and humbling—highpoints in the United States.
Yet for all its fierce elevation gain and technical terrain, Borah Peak also offers a raw kind of clarity. There’s no summit road, no easy stroll to the top. Just you, the trail, and the unrelenting sky.
The High Point of Idaho
Located in Custer County in central Idaho, Borah Peak—often referred to simply as “Mount Borah”—towers over the Lost River Valley, part of the northern Rocky Mountains. Named after U.S. Senator William Borah, this peak became especially prominent in the wake of the 1983 Borah Peak Earthquake, a 6.9 magnitude event that literally lifted the mountain another foot into the sky.
Reaching the summit isn’t just about hitting a number on an altimeter. It’s a physical and mental challenge, a test of endurance, and for many, a deeply personal milestone.
The Hike: Not for the Faint of Heart
Borah Peak is not a casual walk-up. The standard route—the Southwest Ridge Route—is approximately 7 miles round trip but gains over 5,200 feet of elevation. The trailhead begins at around 7,400 feet, and right from the start, it climbs aggressively through steep forested slopes before breaking into open ridgelines.
The most infamous section, Chicken Out Ridge, is a narrow, exposed rock scramble where many hikers make the wise decision to turn back. It requires solid footing, a steady head, and sometimes even the use of your hands. In icy or snowy conditions, it becomes even more treacherous.
Those who continue past Chicken Out Ridge are rewarded with a final push to the summit along scree and talus slopes. Once at the top, the views are breathtaking—wild, untamed mountains stretch endlessly in all directions.
What You’ll Need
- Sturdy footwear: The trail is rocky and unforgiving.
- Layers: Weather changes quickly at high altitudes.
- Helmet: Especially if scrambling during popular months when rockfall risk is high.
- Plenty of water: There’s no water source on the route.
- Navigation tools: Though well-traveled, the trail isn’t marked.
A Seasonal Window
Borah Peak’s summit is typically snow-free between July and September. Earlier or later in the year, the route may require ice axes and crampons. Due to the nature of the terrain, many hikers opt to start pre-dawn to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and to allow ample time for a safe return.
More Than Just a Peak
While Borah’s challenge draws seasoned hikers and highpointers, it also serves as a gateway into deeper questions about what drives us to climb. It’s not just about reaching the summit, but confronting your fears, listening to your body, and recognizing the limits and strengths within.
There’s a certain silence on Borah’s flanks. A reminder of how small we are—and how resilient.
Nearby Places to Explore
If you’re in the area, consider exploring:
- Mackay Reservoir – A serene spot for post-hike recovery.
- Challis Hot Springs – A soak in these natural springs is a perfect way to unwind after a summit attempt.
- Lost River Museum – Learn more about the region’s history and geology.
