Borah Peak

Borah Peak is a major landmark in the western United States. It holds the title of the highest summit in the state of Idaho. This peak is located in the central part of the state. It sits within the central section of the Lost River Range. The mountain is also part of the Challis National Forest. It is located in eastern Custer County.

This peak is one of the most prominent mountains in the contiguous United States. It is also known by other names, such as Mount Borah or Beauty Peak.

In February 2021, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) made an important discovery. They officially recognized Mount Borah as Idaho's only active glacier. A glacier is a large mass of ice that moves. This makes the mountain even more unique within the state. The mountain also features a north face that is very special. This face provides one of Idaho's only year-round snow climbs. Climbers use various routes on this face. These include Grade II class 5 routes on mixed terrain.

Climbing Borah Peak requires significant skill and effort. The normal route follows the southwest ridge. This path starts at a trailhead and leads to the summit. It is a strenuous hike for most people. Just before the main summit crest, climbers reach a Class 4 arête. An arête is a sharp mountain ridge. Many people call this section Chicken-out Ridge. This name comes from the fact that many people stop their attempt there. They do this because the hazards look very close up.

In cooler seasons, this part of the ridge often involves traversing over snow. The slopes on either side are very steep. Climbers often need an ice axe to cross these icy sections safely.

The history of the mountain is tied to a famous leader. For a long time, the peak was nameless. People believed Hyndman Peak was the highest point in Idaho. Once it was discovered that Borah Peak was taller, it needed a name. In February 1934, the U.S. Geological Survey named it. They chose the name to honor William Borah. He was a prominent senior U.S. Senator from Idaho. He had served in the Senate for nearly 27 years at that time. People called him the "Lion of Idaho." He ran for president in 1936 but did not win the Republican nomination. He died while serving in office in 1940.

Geological forces have also shaped this mountain in dramatic ways. On Friday, October 28, 1983, a large earthquake occurred. It happened at 8:06:09 MDT in the Lost River Range near Borah Peak. The earthquake measured 6.9 on the moment magnitude scale. This event caused the earth to move significantly. Borah Peak rose up during the quake. At the same time, the nearby Lost River Valley dropped down. This movement left a visible scar on the western side of the peak.

This mark remains visible on the mountain today. The earthquake was a serious event for the local area. Two children in Challis died when they were struck by falling masonry. They were walking to school when the quake hit.

Because of its height and terrain, the mountain can be dangerous. There are records of climbers losing their lives on the peak. In November 1977, two climbers named Vaughn Howard and Guy Campbell ascended the northwest ridge. They were killed in an avalanche. Their bodies were not recovered for nine months. They were finally found on August 26, 1978. Later, on June 13, 1987, another climber named Dave Probst died during a glissade. A glissade is a controlled slide down a snow slope. These events remind people of the power of mountain environments.

Today, Borah Peak remains a major destination for hikers and climbers. People visit to experience the high elevation and the rugged landscape.

From the summit, the view covers much of the surrounding range. The mountain is a central part of the Idaho wilderness. It connects the study of geology with the sport of mountaineering. It also serves as a monument to the history of the state. Whether through its glaciers or its steep ridges, Borah Peak is a vital part of the American West.