Mountains in Idaho

Known affectionately by locals as “Baldy,” Bald Mountain is the crown jewel of Idaho’s outdoor scene—and home to the very first ski resort in North America. With 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, 60+ runs, and 13 lifts, it’s a paradise for winter sports lovers. But the adventure doesn’t stop when the snow melts—come summer, chairlifts still run, letting hikers catch a lift down after tackling trails like the popular 4.5-mile Bald Mountain Trail.

Highlights:

• Historic site of North America’s first ski resort
• Over 2,000 acres of terrain and 60+ ski runs
• 13 ski lifts, some operating in summer months
• Popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and rock climbers
• Scenic chairlift rides and epic paragliding views

Pro Tip:

Hike up, then take the free summer chairlift ride down—it’s a great way to soak in the views without doubling back on foot. Don’t forget your camera!

Bald Mountain, Sun Valley area, Idaho
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bald_Mountain_(Idaho)

Standing tall at 12,662 feet, Borah Peak holds the title of Idaho’s highest mountain—and it definitely earns its reputation. The go-to route, known as Chickenout Ridge, is a challenging class 3 scramble that kicks off in Birch Springs and gains over 5,200 vertical feet in just 4.1 miles. It’s steep, scenic, and includes a heart-pounding ridge walk that’s not for the faint of heart.

Highlights:

• Idaho’s highest point at 12,662 feet
• Chickenout Ridge route features narrow, exposed ridgelines
• 4.1-mile trail with 5,262 feet of elevation gain
• Best climbed in late summer for milder conditions
• Winter ascents possible with proper alpine gear

Pro Tip:

Late summer offers the safest conditions, but always check the weather and bring extra layers. If you're tackling this in the off-season, you’ll want crampons, snowshoes, and an ice axe—and solid mountaineering experience.

Borah Peak, Lost River Range, Idaho
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Borah_Peak

Unique Mountains

Just a short drive from the City of Rocks National Reserve, Cache Peak rises to 10,339 feet and rewards hikers with stunning views stretching all the way to the Teton Range. A forest service road on the mountain’s southwest side leads to a saddle where the adventure begins. While the trail doesn’t go all the way to the top, the summit is easily reached with the help of a map and compass for those ready to navigate off trail.

Highlights:

• 10,339-foot peak with sweeping Teton views
• Trail access from a saddle on the southwest side
• Unmarked summit route—map and compass recommended
• Close to rock climbing hotspot, City of Rocks National Reserve
• Camping available in designated areas and higher up the mountain

Pro Tip:

For a true backcountry experience, bring a topo map and GPS or compass. Pack in your gear and camp higher up the mountain for epic sunrise views over the valley.

Cache Peak, near City of Rocks, South Central Idaho
visitsouthidaho.com

A favorite for experienced hikers and scramblers, Castle Peak is the crown jewel of Idaho’s White Cloud Mountain Range. The most accessible route is a scenic yet challenging class 3 scramble starting in the Chamberlain Basin. From the summit, you'll get a jaw-dropping view of 25+ alpine lakes and sweeping vistas of the Lost River Range, Sawtooths, and Smoky Mountains.

Highlights:

• Class 3 scramble to one of Idaho’s most scenic peaks
• Trail begins in Chamberlain Basin
• Views of 25+ lakes and multiple surrounding mountain ranges
• Located in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area
• Best visited June through September

Pro Tip:

Don’t forget your Sawtooth Recreation Area permit—available as annual or 3-day passes. Summer months offer the best trail conditions, but pack layers and be avalanche-aware if you're visiting earlier or later in the season.

Castle Peak, White Cloud Mountains, Idaho
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Peak_(Idaho)

Scenic Mountains

Part of the rugged Pioneer Triumvirate, Cobb Peak is often ranked among Idaho’s most beautiful mountains. Rising to 11,650 feet, it claims the 35th highest summit in the state. The peak’s most iconic feature is its multi-colored southwest face, while its north face draws serious mountaineers for one of the region’s toughest snow climbs. With its long approach and exposed summit, Cobb Peak is ideal for experienced hikers looking for a challenge.

Highlights:

• Stands at 11,650 feet—35th highest in Idaho
• Famous for its multi-colored southwest face
• North face offers a steep, technical snow climb
• Part of the scenic Pioneer Triumvirate
• Backcountry campsites available in Hyndman and Big Basins

Pro Tip:

The approach is long, so plan to camp at Hyndman Basin, Big Basin, or near the trailhead to break up the trip. And be cautious at the summit—the exposure is real!

Cobb Peak, Pioneer Mountains, Idaho
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cobb_Peak_(Idaho)

Don’t let the name fool you—Devil’s Bedstead East is one of Idaho’s more visually striking peaks, known for its pyramidal silhouette from the north and a more block-like appearance from the east. This rugged summit is located in the Pioneer Mountains and shouldn’t be confused with its western counterpart. The most popular approaches—via the Boulder Lake or Kane Creek trails—lead to a scramble up the north face.

Highlights:

• Distinctive peak with two dramatically different faces
• Popular access via Boulder Lake or Kane Creek trails
• Challenging scramble to the summit, best in late summer
• Snowy most of the year—technical gear needed outside peak season
• Campgrounds nearby, with backcountry camping allowed

Pro Tip:

Plan your trip for late summer when the snow has melted and the scramble is at its most manageable. For the best views of its unique profile, approach from the north.

Devil’s Bedstead East, Pioneer Mountains, Idaho
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devils_Bedstead_East

Towering at 12,197 feet, Diamond Peak is the tallest mountain in Idaho outside of the Lost River Range—and it’s a favorite for climbers who want altitude without the crowds. With its distinctive pyramidal shape, Diamond Peak dominates the Lemhi Range skyline. The most popular route to the summit is a class 3 scramble, offering epic views and a solid challenge for experienced hikers.

Highlights:

• 12,197 feet tall—Idaho’s tallest peak outside the Lost River Range
• Striking pyramid shape and sweeping summit views
• Popular class 3 scrambling route to the top
• Camping options near Birch Creek, Badger Creek, and the eastern base
• Home to Idaho’s largest herds of antelope in nearby valleys

Pro Tip:

Keep your eyes peeled on the drive in—antelope herds are often spotted in the valleys to the east and west. For the best approach, start early and plan to camp nearby.

Diamond Peak, Lemhi Range, Idaho
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diamond_Peak_(Idaho)

Mountains for Couples

Tucked deep in Idaho’s Lost River Range, Doublespring Peak is a lesser-known summit that rewards adventurous spirits. Rising to 11,611 feet, the mountain is defined by a maze of ridgelines that make its true summit tricky to spot. While it doesn't see the foot traffic of nearby Mount Borah, Doublespring is still climbable from late June to October for those ready to navigate remote, rugged terrain.

Highlights:

• Remote 11,611-foot peak in the Lost River Range
• Complicated ridgelines make for interesting route-finding
• Climbing season typically runs from late June through October
• No established campgrounds—car camping is your best bet
• Perfect for solitude-seekers and backcountry explorers

Pro Tip:

This is true backcountry territory, so pack accordingly—extra water, a topo map, and proper layers are musts. Car camping near the trailhead is the safest option since the terrain is exposed and the weather can change fast.

Doublespring Peak, Lost River Range, Idaho
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doublespring_Peak

Tucked away in the Beaverhead Mountain Range, Goat Mountain is a remote and rewarding summit adventure featuring two distinct peaks—with the slightly higher southern peak being the true summit. The climb is a manageable class 2 scramble that starts at the parking area and follows the southwest ridge, offering hikers the chance to bag both summits in one trip.

Highlights:

• Located in the scenic Beaverhead Mountain Range
• Class 2 scramble with access to both north and south summits
• Southern peak is the official summit at 11,913 feet
• Year-round access, with snow gear recommended in winter
• No water sources on the trail—come fully prepared

Pro Tip:

Bring plenty of water—there are no water sources along the route. If you’re tackling it in winter, snowshoes and trekking poles are your best friends on the ridgeline.

Goat Mountain, Beaverhead Mountains, Blaine County, Idaho
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goat_Mountain_(Blaine_County,_Idaho)

Rising to 12,009 feet, Hyndman Peak is a striking, pyramid-shaped summit that marks the highest point in the Pioneer Mountains. Often considered the most accessible of Idaho’s “12ers,” the route still challenges hikers with 5,000 feet of elevation gain over a 12-mile round trip. Located at the head of scenic Hyndman Basin, the peak is a favorite for those seeking a big summit day with fewer technical demands.

Highlights:

• 12,009-foot peak—the easiest climb of Idaho’s 12ers
• Trail gains 5,000 feet over 12 miles
• Free camping available at trailhead and in Hyndman Basin
• Stunning alpine scenery with water sources and tree cover
• Best climbed in late summer or early fall

Pro Tip:

Camp in Hyndman Basin for a head start on summit day and to enjoy sunrise views on the peak. No fees, no crowds—just bring plenty of water and good boots.

Hyndman Peak, Pioneer Mountains, Idaho
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyndman_Peak