Borah Peak - Definition and Overview

Borah Peak
Borah Peak
Elevation:	12,662 feet (3,861 metres)
Latitude:	40° 08′ 14.60″ N
Longitude:	113° 46′ 51.96″ W
Location:	Custer County, Idaho, USA
Topo map:	USGS Borah Peak
Range:	Lost River Range
First ascent:	1912 by T.M. Bannon
Easiest route:	scramble

Borah Peak (also known as Mount Borah) is the tallest mountain in Idaho, located in the Challis National Forest. It is named for William Edgar Borah (1865-1940), U.S. Senator from Idaho serving from 1907-1940.

The normal route on the southwest ridge is a strenuous hike for the most part until one reaches an arete just before the main summit crest. This point is known as "Chickenout Ridge" as many people will abort the attempt once they see the hazards up close. This dangerous crossing involves a traverse over snow, with steeply slanting slopes on either side. An ice axe is strongly recommended for this section. Parties should turn back if there is any doubt about being able to make the crossing.

Borah Peak's north face is one of Idaho's only year-round snow climbs and provides a much greater challenge than the normal route. The face features a number of grade II class 5 routes on mixed terrain.

Three climbers have died on Borah Peak. Two climbers ascending the northwest ridge in 1977 were killed in an avalanche. Another climber in 1987 lost his life on a glissade during descent.

See also

• List of tallest mountains of U.S. states

External links

• Mount Borah Climbing Guide (http://www.idahoaclimbingguide.com/id118.htm) - photos of the normal route
• General Information about Borah Peak (http://idahosummits.com/borah_feature/borah.htm)