How to Conquer Mount Borah, Idaho’s Tallest Peak
Idaho, often celebrated for its vast wilderness and stunning landscapes, is home to Mount Borah, the state's tallest peak. Nestled in the Lost River Range, Mount Borah rises to an impressive 12,662 feet, offering intrepid climbers a challenging yet incredibly rewarding adventure. If you've been bitten by the mountaineering bug or simply seek an exhilarating experience, climbing Mount Borah should definitely be on your bucket list.
Climbing Mount Borah isn’t your average day hike. The most popular route, the Southwest Ridge (often referred to as the "Chicken Out Ridge" route), involves a steep ascent, some scrambling, and the infamous ridge where many climbers, understandably, decide to turn back. But with preparation, determination, and the right mindset, summiting Borah is within reach.
I summited Mount Borah on August 17th, 2024, and wanted to share my experience and thoughts for others who are looking to snag this peak. Below, I’ll share everything you need to know about climbing Mount Borah, from planning your trip to reaching the summit. Grab your gear, lace up your boots, and let's dive into this epic journey.
Shannon (the author) and her friend Heather doing the damn thing at the summit.
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Table of Contents
The Route: Standard Southwest Ridge
The Trailhead to the Tree Line
Tree Line to Chicken Out Ridge
Crossing Chicken Out Ridge
The Final Push to the Summit
The Summit Experience
The Descent
Physical Preparation
Climbing Mount Borah requires more than just a desire to reach the summit—you need to be physically prepared. The hike involves a 5,200-foot elevation gain over just 3.5 miles to the summit. Here’s how to get your body ready.
Cardio Training
Start incorporating cardio workouts into your routine at least three months before your climb. Running, cycling, and stair climbing are great options. Aim for at least 3-4 sessions per week, gradually increasing the intensity and duration. HIIT training can be particularly helpful for this.
Personally, I ran 3 days a week, with two short 3-mile road days, and one longer trail run day to keep up my hill endurance with both uphill and downhill. I rode the exercise bike, hiked, or swam in the pool the other 3 days (a total of 6 days of cardio per week in the months leading up to the climb).
Strength Training
Focus on leg and core strength. Squats, lunges, and deadlifts will help build the muscle needed for the steep ascent and decent. Don’t forget to work on your core with exercises like planks and Russian twists, as a strong core will help with balance during the climb.
I lifted weights two days a week, and climbed at my local gym once a week when I could. On weight lifting A days, I did dumbbell squats, dumbbell bench press, and dumbbell rows. On B days I did dumbbell squats again, deadlifts, and dumbbell overhead press. I did 3 sets of 12 reps at lower weights to help build my endurance over building muscle. The indoor rock climbing was also key for me as well. After doing this climb, I’m really, really happy with this training regimen.
Hiking Practice
If possible, get out and hike as much as you can, especially on trails with significant elevation gain. This will help your body adjust to the demands of the climb and give you a sense of what to expect. Walking around your neighborhood for extended periods of time is also helpful, if hiking isn’t readily available in your area.
Descending the final part of Chicken Out Ridge on Mount Borah, one of the easier parts of this scramble.
Desensitizing Yourself to Heights
For those who are accustomed to class 3 and 4 scrambles, you will likely find this to be on par with your other experiences from a technical standpoint, and really enjoy it. You can jump to the next section for more route related information. If you’re like me, on the other hand, who is TERRIFIED of heights, this section is for you.
One of the most daunting aspects of climbing Mount Borah, particularly for those not accustomed to heights, is the notorious Chicken Out Ridge. If heights make you uneasy, it’s important to take steps to desensitize yourself ahead of time to increase your confidence on the mountain.
If you are innately fearful of heights, I wouldn’t even consider attempting Chicken Out Ridge until you desensitize yourself. I watched every video on YouTube ahead of time, and honestly, it was even more frightening than I had imagined. I say this not to deter you, but you emphasize the importance of preparing yourself mentally ahead of time. With the mental training, it was doable, and dare-I-say even fun in some sections of Chicken Out Ridge.
Gradual Exposure
Desensitizing yourself to heights starts with gradual exposure. Begin by tackling smaller challenges that push your comfort zone without overwhelming you. Over time, you can work your way up to more demanding situations.
Local Hikes: Start with local hikes that feature mild exposure, such as trails with viewpoints or small ridges. These will help you get used to the sensation of height in a controlled environment.
Rock Climbing Gyms: Indoor rock climbing gyms offer a safe, controlled setting to practice dealing with heights. Bouldering doesn’t involve ropes and focuses on shorter, more technical climbs, while top-rope climbing can help you get comfortable with being off the ground.
As someone who is severely afraid of heights, indoor climbing was a must for me. I tried to go weekly in the 3 months leading up to the climb. I focused on top-rope climbing until I was confident that I could do a 5.8 and 5.9 without any falls or significant breaks. I then practiced on autobelays instead of with my climbing partners, so I would learn to trust myself fully.
Observation Decks and Bridges: Visit observation decks, bridges, or even amusement park rides that offer height exposure. This controlled environment allows you to experience the sensation without the added challenge of difficult terrain.
Mental Techniques
The mental aspect of climbing Mount Borah is just as important as the physical. There will be moments of doubt, especially on the Chicken Out Ridge. This was easily the most challenging part for myself. Prepare yourself mentally by visualizing the climb, breaking the ascent into manageable sections, and reminding yourself why you’re doing this. You can use these techniques to help manage anxiety and keep your cool:
Controlled Breathing: Practice deep, controlled diaphragmatic breathing to help calm your nerves. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, then exhale slowly through your mouth. This can help reduce anxiety and keep you focused.
Positive Visualization: Picture yourself on the trail, navigating the rocky sections of Chicken Out Ridge, and standing triumphantly at the summit. Picture the feeling of accomplishment and pride when you conquer your fear. I can’t emphasize this enough! If you can imagine yourself doing it, you CAN do it.
Mindfulness: In the months leading up to your climb, practice mindfulness meditation as often as possible, preferably daily. Studies have shown daily practice for 8 weeks can physically change your prefrontal cortex activity (so cool!) to help reduce anxiety.
During the climb, stay in the moment and focus on the task at hand rather than letting your mind dwell on the height. Do your best not to focus on what’s to come, but rather each handhold and foothold right there. Pay attention to each step, the texture of the rock, and your surroundings. This can help reduce the overwhelming feeling that often accompanies a fear of heights.
Mantras: Develop a positive mantra to repeat to yourself during the climb, such as “one step at a time” or “I am in control.” This can help drown out negative thoughts and keep you focused. This may sound silly, but for me, I reminded myself that hundreds of people climb Chicken Out Ridge each summer safely, and I wasn’t going to be on the wrong side of statistics. I also said to myself regularly “hand hold, foothold” to stay focused.
Set Small Goals: Break the climb into sections—getting to Chicken Out Ridge, crossing it, and then reaching the summit. Focusing on one goal at a time can make the climb feel more achievable.
A late afternoon rain storm rolling through Mount Borah the day before our climb. Sudden and unexpected storms are common, especially later in the day.
Understanding the Classes of Scrambles
When preparing for a climb like Mount Borah, it’s important to understand the different classes of scrambles, as they indicate the level of difficulty and the type of terrain you’ll encounter. Scrambling is the activity of climbing over rocks and rough terrain using both your hands and feet but without the technical gear needed for rock climbing. The Yosemite Decimal System (YDS) is commonly used in the United States to rate the difficulty of hiking and climbing routes, and it includes classifications for scrambling.
Here’s a breakdown of the classes, from easiest to most difficult:
Class 1: Easy Hiking
Description: Class 1 routes are simple, straightforward hiking trails with a gentle slope and no significant obstacles. These trails are well-defined, and you won’t need to use your hands for balance or support.
Examples: Most well-maintained hiking trails in parks or wilderness areas fall into this category. They are accessible to hikers of all skill levels and typically don’t require any special equipment.
Who It's For: Suitable for everyone, including beginners and families.
Class 2: Moderate Hiking
Description: Class 2 involves more rugged terrain, where you might need to use your hands occasionally for balance. The trail may include steeper sections, loose rock, or boulder fields, but there’s still no real climbing involved.
Examples: A Class 2 route might require stepping over large rocks or navigating a scree slope (a slope covered in loose stones). You might need to scramble a bit, but it’s still relatively easy.
Who It's For: Hikers with some experience who are comfortable on uneven terrain. No specialized equipment is needed, but sturdy footwear is recommended.
Class 3: Scrambling
Description: Class 3 is where true scrambling begins. You’ll need to use both your hands and feet to climb up rocks and navigate steep terrain. While the risk of falling increases, the exposure (the amount of open space around you) is usually moderate. However, in some sections, a fall could cause injury.
Examples: Many parts of Chicken Out Ridge on Mount Borah fall into this category. The terrain is steep and rocky, requiring careful movement and sometimes awkward maneuvers to keep your balance.
Who It's For: Climbers with experience and a good head for heights. You should be comfortable with hands-on scrambling, but no ropes are required. Proper hiking boots with good grip are essential.
Class 4: Simple Climbing
Description: Class 4 involves more technical climbing where a fall could be fatal, so many climbers use a rope for protection, though it’s not strictly necessary. The terrain is steeper and more exposed, and the handholds might be less secure. Some routes on Borah, especially following the ridgeline, have some class 4 sections.
Examples: Class 4 routes often involve steep rock faces or narrow ledges. While it’s still considered scrambling, the level of difficulty and risk is higher.
Who It's For: Experienced climbers who are comfortable with exposure and have good route-finding skills. A helmet and possibly a rope are recommended for safety.
Class 5: Technical Climbing
Description: Class 5 is full-on technical rock climbing, where ropes, harnesses, and other protective gear are necessary. The terrain is vertical or nearly vertical, with small or difficult-to-find handholds and footholds.
Examples: Class 5 routes are what you see in traditional rock climbing and require specialized skills and equipment. Mount Borah’s standard route doesn’t include Class 5 climbing, but it’s important to understand this classification if you’re venturing into more advanced climbing.
Who It's For: Highly experienced climbers with training in technical climbing techniques and the use of protective gear.
Key Points to Remember
Safety: As the class increases, so does the risk. It’s crucial to know your limits and be honest about your comfort level with exposure and technical terrain.
Preparation: Practicing on lower-class scrambles before attempting something more challenging like Mount Borah is essential. Familiarize yourself with the techniques needed for Class 3 scrambling, as you’ll encounter it on Chicken Out Ridge.
Equipment: For Class 3 and above, good hiking boots with a solid grip are vital. Helmets are recommended for Class 3 and above, especially in areas where loose rock is common.
Understanding these classes will help you assess the difficulty of a route and prepare accordingly, ensuring that you stay safe and enjoy your climbing adventure to the fullest.
Planning Your Adventure
Climbing Mount Borah isn't something you decide to do on a whim. Proper planning is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, both for yourself, you climbing partners, and others on the mountain.
Best Time of Year to Climb
The best time to climb Mount Borah is during the summer months, typically from late June to early September. During this period, the weather is more predictable, and the route is generally free of snow. The infamous snowbridge section often has snow still through July, but usually snow has melted on the main trail, reducing risk of avalanche. However, always check the weather forecast before your climb, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains and be unpredictable.
Suggested Time of Day to Start
Timing is crucial when it comes to climbing Mount Borah. The hike is demanding and typically requires a full day to complete, so it’s best to start early. Aim to begin your ascent around 4:00 AM to 5:00 AM. This early start allows you to make good progress before the afternoon heat sets in, which can make the climb even more grueling. Personally, I started at 3:30 AM with my climbing partner, so we could take our time with the ascent and not worry about needing to rush.
Starting early helps you avoid the afternoon thunderstorms common in the area, which can pose significant safety risks. It’s important to be at the treeline again before storms roll in, as the rest of the route is completely exposed, and could be fatal if caught in a lightning storm. If you DO find yourself in the exposed sections and there’s lightning, The American Hiking and U.S. Forest Service have advice for how to reduce your risk of being struck.
Additionally, the cooler temperatures in the morning make the climb more comfortable, and getting an early start maximizes your daylight hours for the hike.
Average Time to Complete
On average, climbers take about 8 to 12 hours to complete the round-trip hike to the summit of Mount Borah. This includes the ascent and descent, as well as breaks. The exact time can vary based on your pace, weather conditions, and how long you spend on the summit.
Given the length and intensity of the hike, it’s wise to plan for a full day on the mountain. Start early, take regular breaks, and pace yourself to avoid exhaustion.
Permits and Fees
Fortunately, climbing Mount Borah does not require any special permits or fees. However, you should check with the local ranger station for any updates or restrictions that may be in place during your planned climb.
Camping Options
There are a few camping options in the area. The primary trailhead for Mount Borah is the Borah Peak Trailhead, located off of Highway 93. You turn off the highway onto a 3 mile, well-maintained gravel road.
Next to the trailhead is Borah Campground. There are 5 designated campsites that are first-come-first-serve. You self-register and pay $5 when you get there. There are 2 simple pit toilets that are well-stocked with toilet paper, but no hand sanitizer. There is no drinking water, so you will need to bring your own. I would not filter water from the nearby stream I saw, as there were a ton of cows in the area. I don’t think it’s worth the risk, because not all water filters filter out everything.
There are also TONS of dispersed camping sites near the trailhead, even just minutes away. In hindsight, I would have chosen this option.
You can also sleep in the parking lot at the trailhead. I chose this option and slept in my car, so I wouldn’t have to deal with packing up a tent when it was dark out. If you choose this option, please know that on a busy weekend there are a lot of people there, and it can be a bit loud. Some people arrive late. Others don’t plan to climb until later in the morning, so they may be awake later. It’s not the most restful night of sleep.
Ensure you follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Bring your own trash bag so you can pack out what you bring. There are no garbage cans at the trailhead or in the pit toilets. I saw a lot of banana and orange peels on the trail: please don’t be that person, just pack it out!
Mount Borah trail: hiking from the tree line to Chicken Out Ridge as the sun was coming out.
Gear to Pack
Packing the right gear is crucial for a successful and safe climb. Here’s a checklist of essentials you’ll need for your Mount Borah adventure:
Backpack: A sturdy, comfortable backpack with enough capacity to carry all your gear. I used my Deuter Trail 28 SL Pack It was a good size to fit everything I needed, while hugging my body well during the scrambling section. I definitely packed too much water, which made it heavier than I needed, so in hindsight, it would have been helpful to stash some water.
Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes or boots, with a grippy sole. Make sure they’re broken in before your climb. Some people brought approach shoes also. Personally, I loved my Topo Athletic Terraventure 4 WP Trail-Running Shoes. They were designed for rugged trails and have incredible grip, while also giving me the flexibility to move easily over Chicken Out Ridge. I couldn’t recommend these more!
Clothing: Dress in layers. The weather can change quickly, and you’ll want to be able to adjust your clothing as needed. A moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer are essential. Don’t forget a sunhat!
I wore my TYR SunDefense Vented Hooded Sun Shirt for my base, which was perfect to keep me from overheating on the steep ascent, but covered from the sun during the descent. I wore my prAna transform leggings. I prefer climbing in leggings so no loose bits catch on anything. I didn’t need my vest until Chicken Out Ridge, but was really glad that I had it for that section–I definitely would have been too cold. I also threw on my Carhartt Women's Rain Defender after a while to block out the wind. It gets cold at high elevation during the morning! Finally, I wore my Smartwool Run Low Ankle Socks to wick away moisture and prevent blisters (my feet were very happy, even with the demanding descent!)
Trekking Poles: These can be a lifesaver, especially on the steep sections and during the descent. Make sure you have a pair that can be secured in your backpack foro the scramble, as you will need your hands to climb.
I used my Black Diamond Distance FLZ Trekking Poles. They’re a fixed height, so you’ll need to measure yourself accurately, but they were incredible for this hike! My climbing partner had adjustable ones, which stopped locking halfway down the mountain, and made them unusable. I loved the FLZ ones because they can fold up really small (small enough to completely fit into my pack), they’re lightweight, had excellent grip, and I could really put my weight on them.
Navigation: A map, compass, and GPS device. Even though the trail is well-marked, it’s always good to have navigation tools, especially in inclement weather–it would be very easy to get lost without visibility.
First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, and any personal medications.
Gloves: Some kind of glove that has a grip is really helpful for the scramble.
I used a pair like these cycling gloves. They made it easier to grip the rock, but also let me feel the rock with my finger tips, which I personally really enjoyed. They also helped keep my hands cold, because it was chilly in the morning! Some people used belay gloves, others without gloves at all. It’s a personal preference, but good to have in case you get up there and realize you prefer to have some!
Headlamp: In case you’re getting an early start (we were in complete darkness for the first two hours), or if you are accidentally still on the mountain after dark, a reliable headlamp is essential.
Food and Water: Bring enough food and snacks to keep your energy up throughout the day, and fuel frequently, even if you’re not hungry. High-calorie, lightweight options like nuts, jerky, energy bars or chews are great.
A hydration system or water bottles are a must, with at least 2-3 liters of water. I brought 4 liters of water and a 28 oz gatorade. I drank a little less than 3 liters and the full gatorade throughout the whole day. A lot of people recommend stashing water at the tree line, right around mile 2. In hindsight, this would have been a great idea, as it would have lightened my pack significantly. I would have brought just 2-3 liters up from the treeline with me.
Safety Gear: A whistle, emergency blanket, and a small multi-tool.
Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm with SPF. The sun’s rays are stronger at higher altitudes. I didn’t put my lip balm on soon enough and got sunburned a bit.
Safety Considerations
Climbing Mount Borah is an adventure, but it’s important to prioritize safety. Here are some key safety considerations:
Weather
Check the weather forecast before you go, and be prepared for sudden changes. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the summer, so plan to summit early in the day and be on your way down before the afternoon. If the weather turns bad, don’t hesitate to turn back—no summit is worth risking your life.
Altitude
Mount Borah’s elevation can cause altitude sickness, especially if you’re not acclimatized. Drink plenty of water, as dehydration can exacerbate altitude sickness symptoms. Give your body time to acclimatize by ascending slowly and taking breaks as needed. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If you start to feel any of these, descend to a lower altitude immediately. It’s best to either arrive at high altitude a week beforehand, or less than 24 hours before you plan to finish. You can read this article I wrote here about altitude training, and why arriving between 24-72 hours may be harmful to your climb.
Hydration
Dehydration can sneak up on you, especially at higher altitudes where the air is drier. Drink water regularly throughout the hike, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Electrolyte tablets or drinks can help replace lost salts and keep you hydrated.
Navigation
While the trail is well-marked, it’s easy to get disoriented, especially in fog or poor visibility. Always carry a map, compass, and GPS device, and know how to use them. Stick to the trail, and if you’re unsure of the route, stop and reassess rather than risk getting lost.
Leave No Trace
Mount Borah is a beautiful, but fragile environment. Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all your trash, staying on the trail, and respecting wildlife. This helps preserve the mountain for future climbers.
Emergency Plan
Before you head out, let someone know your plans, including your expected return time. Carry an emergency whistle and a basic first aid kit, and know the signs of hypothermia, heat exhaustion, and altitude sickness.
Hikers climbing down the vertical wall before the snow bridge (which had no snow on this day).
The Route: Standard Southwest Ridge
The adventure begins at the Mount Borah trailhead, located about 40 miles north of Mackay, Idaho and sits at approximately 7,200 feet. The initial part of the trail winds through a dense forest.
The Trailhead to the Tree Line
The trail starts gently enough, winding through a beautiful forested area. As you climb, the trees thin out, and the trail becomes steeper and more rugged.
What to Expect: The first part of the hike is relatively straightforward, but steadily gains elevation. You’ll be surrounded by alpine vegetation, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some wildlife. As you approach the tree line, the trail becomes rockier, and the climb gets steeper. If you’re doing this in the dark, you’ll just follow the switchbacks. This section is about 2 miles.
Key Tips: Take your time here and find a steady rhythm. Hydrate frequently, and don’t rush—this is just the beginning. Dress in less clothing–avoid hypothermia by not overdressing and sweating too much. You can add layers on later.
Tree Line to Chicken Out Ridge
As you leave the tree line behind, the terrain changes dramatically. The trail becomes a series of steep switchbacks that lead up to Chicken Out Ridge, the most infamous part of the climb. This 1ish mile section is really beautiful as the sun begins to rise. Enjoy the views!
What to Expect: The switchbacks are relentless, and the altitude starts to make itself known. As you approach Chicken Out Ridge, you’ll get your first glimpse of the narrow, rocky ridge that has caused many climbers to turn back. This section third mile follows an exposed ridge, but isn’t dangerous, in my opinion, just really steep.
Key Tips: Keep your pace slow and steady. When you reach Chicken Out Ridge, take a moment to assess the route and your comfort level. If you’re confident, proceed with caution. This is a great place to enjoy a snack/breakfast, because it might be a while before you’ll feel comfortable reaching into your pack again.
Crossing Chicken Out Ridge
This is where the climb gets serious. Chicken Out Ridge is a narrow, exposed section of the route that requires scrambling, nerves of steel and careful foot placement. It’s about 0.4 miles, but can take a good amount of time (it took us roughly an hour). The Chicken-Out Ridge section of the climb begins at an elevation just over 11,000’ and is roughly 500 vertical feet. It is an exposed, 3rd class ridge, and has some class 4 sections.
We did this section without a rope or guide, but there are plenty who choose to go with professionals. Do what’s best for you. There are a number of sections in which falling is not an option–it is hundreds of feet down, and would likely be fatal. Take your time, focus on your movements, and you'll conquer it.
The first section climbs an easier terraced scramble. Then you then get to what I call a “V-chute,” which was actually really fun. After that, there’s a short traverse that was one of the most frightening sections, in my opinion. There’s no way around it, and you can’t fall here. I’m 5’3” and can sometimes have a difficult time finding hand and foot placements that taller people can. Even at my height, I was able to find study placements, and was able to make the cross in about two movements. You will have to cross this section on the way back too, so keep that in mind.
On the way up, most recommend following the ridgeline. This is because it can be easy to get lost and get into more technical terrain. Most of the ridgeline was relatively straight forward, until we got to a section that was about a 7-8’ wall. We watched another couple do it, then teamed up with another group who helped coach me where to find feet and hand holds (again, my intense fear of heights wasn’t great here, but I got through it). Take your time.
You then walk along the path that hugs the mountain on one side and is a steep dropoff on the other. The trail is plenty wide, so even with a fear of heights, keep your eyes on the trail and you can do it.
You then come up to another “V-chute” that is easy traveling, and pretty fun. At the top of the V-chute is one of the scarier sections–the infamous snowbridge. First, you have another 10ish foot wall to climb down. There are usually ropes in place here. I personally don’t think I could have done it without the rope, as some of the moves down were bigger than my shorter statue could make confidently. Again, on either side is a huge fall, so there is no room for error. When you get down, you cross the snow bridge, which is without snow if you’re doing this later in the summer, which we were. After that, takes breather–you made it through Chicken Out Ridge!
What to Expect: The ridge is narrow, with steep drop-offs on either side. The rocks can be loose in some areas, but are generally solid. There are a few sections where you’ll need to use your hands to steady yourself. Take your time, focus on your footing, and don’t rush. The ridge culminates in a short downclimb that leads to the final push to the summit.
Key Tips: If you’re afraid of heights, this is the most challenging part. Focus on your breathing, take it one step at a time, and remember that slow and steady wins the race. I put my trekking poles away for this section, to have my hands readily available.
The Final Push to the Summit
Once you’ve conquered Chicken Out Ridge, the summit is within reach. The trail continues up a steep slope of loose scree, but the end is in sight. This is where your physical training comes in handy. It's slow and steep, even though it’s only a short distance (approximately half a mile). People don’t talk a lot about this section, but I saw a lot of people struggling physically. You’re at high elevation, and you just did a scramble. This is a good place to really make sure you’re hydrated and fueled up calorically.
What to Expect: The final section is a steep climb over loose rocks and scree. It’s exhausting, but the knowledge that you’re almost there will keep you going. As you near the summit, the terrain becomes more stable, and you’ll get your first glimpse of the summit marker.
Key Tips: Keep your head down and power through this last section. The sense of accomplishment when you reach the summit is worth every step. Beware of falling rock from those above you. I bought a helmet and wore it through this section for peace of mind.
The Summit Experience
Reaching the summit of Mount Borah is an incredible achievement. At 12,662 feet, you’ll be standing on top of Idaho, with panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. Take a moment to savor the experience, snap some photos, and enjoy the feeling of accomplishment. Don’t forget to add your name to the registry!
What to Expect: The summit is a rocky plateau with a summit marker. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction, including the Sawtooth Range to the west and the Lemhi Range to the east.
Key Tips: Spend some time at the summit to soak in the views, but don’t linger too long—remember, you still have to get down! It can also be very windy up here, so don’t forget your layers!
The Descent
The descent can be the most challenging part of any climb for some, and Mount Borah is no exception. After the euphoria of reaching the summit, it’s easy to let your guard down, but the descent requires just as much focus and care as the ascent.
Going down the “Final Push” involves careful and slow placement, as there is a lot of loose scree. Be mindful of others below you and call out “rock!” if something is tumbling toward them so they can take safety precautions. I pulled out my trek poles for this section going down.
For Chicken Out Ridge, you have options. You can go back along the Ridgeline you came from, or, if it’s safe to do so later in the season, you can scree skii very carefully to the right and avoid the vertical wall across the snowbridge. It’ll take you halfway down that second V-chute. I chose this option, as I was mentally drained by the vertical wall, although I know climbing up it would have been much easier than the descent we had done earlier. I slid sitting down, going VERY slowly, and waiting until others had passed below me, because loose rock is inevitable.
After the V-chute, we walked along the trail that hugged the mountain again, and then took a right instead of following the ridgeline. We were able to avoid the second vertical wall, and it was MUCH easier. It spit us out on top of the ridgeline, then we went down the left side. We saw a group traverse then go back to the ridgeline, but we followed a climber and his dog who actually went down a little bit and traversed. Again, this was much easier, in my opinion.
We eventually got back to that short traverse with the steep drop-off that you simply cannot avoid. I found finding a second handhold a little more difficult on the descent, but kept my mind focused on handholds and footholds. After that, the final V-chute was a breeze!
You then go back down the steep section to the tree line. This is actually where I saw a lot of people struggle the most. Trek poles were key, but even then, taking it slow and steady was important. I’m a trail runner, and my knees hurt after this when they don’t usually.
Once you get back to the tree line, it’s another 2 miles back down–you did it!
What to Expect: The loose scree on the upper slopes can make the descent tricky. Take your time, and use trekking poles for stability if you have them. Crossing Chicken Out Ridge again can be mentally taxing, so take it slow and steady.
Key Tips: Don’t rush the descent—this is where many accidents happen. Keep your focus, stay hydrated, and take breaks as needed.
After the Climb
Successfully summiting Mount Borah is a monumental achievement, and it’s important to take the time to reflect on your experience and celebrate your accomplishment. After a challenging climb, your body and mind need time to recover. Here’s how to make the most of your post-climb experience:
Rest and Rehydrate: Drink plenty of water and eat a nutritious meal to help your body recover. Your muscles will likely be sore, so take it easy for a few days and allow your body to heal.
Celebrate: Whether it’s treating yourself to a favorite meal, relaxing in a hot tub, or sharing a post-climb beer with friends, make sure to celebrate your achievement. You’ve earned it!
Write a Trip Report: Consider writing a trip report to share with the climbing community. Include details about the conditions, any tips you have, and your personal experience. This can be incredibly helpful for others planning their own climb.
Encourage Others: If you meet someone who’s thinking about climbing Mount Borah, share your story and encourage them to go for it. Your experience could be the push they need to take on the challenge.
Mount Borah Hikers enjoying the views and some snacks up at the summit.
Menstruation Considerations
When planning your climb of Mount Borah, it’s important to consider how menstruation might impact your experience and prepare accordingly. Here are some tips to help you manage your period while enjoying the adventure.
Planning Ahead
Track Your Cycle: If possible, use a menstrual tracking app or calendar to anticipate when your period might occur. If your cycle is regular, you can plan your climb accordingly, though this isn’t always possible. Being aware of your cycle helps you pack the necessary supplies and prepare mentally and physically for the climb.
Pack Extra Supplies: Make sure to bring more menstrual supplies than you think you’ll need, including tampons, pads, menstrual cups, or period panties. Consider the duration of your trip, and remember that it’s better to have extra in case of delays or emergencies.
Disposal Bags: Since you’ll need to pack out everything you bring in, including used menstrual products, pack sealable plastic bags or dedicated disposal bags to store them until you can properly dispose of them. Odor-sealing bags are a good choice for keeping your pack fresh.
Menstrual Cups: If you’re comfortable using a menstrual cup, it can be a convenient option for a hike like Mount Borah. Menstrual cups can hold more fluid than tampons or pads and can be worn for up to 12 hours, which is ideal for long stretches without access to facilities. Just be sure to practice using it before your trip and bring a small bottle of water for rinsing it out if needed. You can check out the Alpine Sisters Amazon storefront for some of our favorite menstrual cup recommendations.
Comfort Measures: If you typically experience cramps or other menstrual symptoms, consider bringing pain relief medication such as ibuprofen. Heat patches can also be helpful, but ensure you can carry them out without leaving any waste.
Dealing with Physical Challenges
Energy Levels: Some people experience changes in energy levels during their period. Be mindful of how your body feels, and don’t hesitate to take extra breaks if needed. Stay hydrated and snack on energy-boosting foods like nuts, dried fruits, or energy bars to keep your strength up.
Heavy Flow: If you have a heavy flow, plan for more frequent breaks to change your menstrual products. It might also be worth starting your hike earlier in the day to give yourself plenty of time to manage any unexpected issues.
Body Awareness: Pay attention to how your body feels and be kind to yourself. If you need to slow down, that’s okay. Climbing a peak like Mount Borah is challenging enough without added pressure. Listen to your body and adjust your pace as needed.
Environmental Responsibility
Leave No Trace: It’s essential to follow Leave No Trace principles when handling menstrual waste. Pack out all used products and dispose of them properly once you’re off the mountain. This keeps the environment clean and preserves the natural beauty of the area.
Biodegradable Products: If you prefer to minimize waste, consider using biodegradable products. However, remember that even biodegradable items should be packed out rather than buried or left behind.
Mental Preparation
Mindset: It’s normal to feel a bit more anxious or overwhelmed when dealing with your period on a big climb, especially if it’s your first time. Prepare mentally by reminding yourself that you’ve trained for this and are ready to handle any challenges. A positive mindset can go a long way in making your climb a success.
Managing your period during a strenuous climb like Mount Borah requires a bit of extra preparation, but with the right mindset and supplies, you can stay comfortable and focused on your goal. Remember, menstruation is a natural part of life, and it doesn’t have to stand in the way of your adventure.
Final Thoughts
Climbing Mount Borah is more than just a physical challenge—it’s a journey that tests your mental toughness, rewards your perseverance, and leaves you with memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re standing on the summit or looking back at the ridge you’ve just crossed, you’ll find that this adventure is as much about the experience as it is about the destination.
The sense of accomplishment that comes from reaching the highest point in Idaho is something that stays with you. It’s not just about being on top of a mountain; it’s about the preparation, the struggle, and the triumph of pushing yourself beyond what you thought possible.
Remember, climbing Mount Borah isn’t just about the summit. It’s about every step you take on the way up, every moment of doubt you overcome, and every bit of beauty you encounter on the trail. The mountain will challenge you, but it will also reward you in ways that go beyond the physical. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a first-timer looking for a new challenge, Mount Borah offers an unforgettable experience.
So, lace up your boots, pack your gear, and get ready for an adventure that will leave you with a story to tell for years to come. Mount Borah is waiting, and with the right preparation, the right mindset, and a spirit of adventure, you’ll be ready to meet the challenge and stand proudly on Idaho’s tallest peak. Good luck, stay safe, and enjoy every moment of your climb!
About the Author
Shannon is an avid outdoor enthusiast, registered running coach, and adventure writer. With a passion for conquering challenging trails, Shannon shares personal experiences and advice to help others achieve their outdoor goals safely and confidently. When not peak bagging, Shannon enjoys hiking with her family, trail running, backpacking, and exploring nature.