Thompson Peak is the highest of the Sawtooth Range - described as the crown jewel of Idaho's many mountain ranges. Despite gaining slowly in popularity, the region retains a pristine and uncrowded nature. Views from the top of Thompson Peak are said to be spectacular.

Activity Notes

Climb the highest peak in Idaho's Sawtooth Wilderness Area. We are going to spend one night at 9,500' at a high alpine lake, just below the saddle on the way to the climb route. I also reserved two campsites at Point Campground, which is 0.9 miles from our trailhead, for September 10-13. We will likely start our climb from there, leaving our vehicles to hold our sites, as we will be camping at that high lake Friday, September 11.

Here is the plan:

  • Thursday, September 10, 2026: Drive up to ten hours to Point Campground, starting at 07:00 PDT. We will have a mandatory pre-climb meeting in camp at 19:00 MDT. 
  • Friday, September 11, 2026: Backpack to unnamed lake at 9,500'. 
  • Saturday, September 12, 2026: Climb Thompson Peak (10,682'), return to our campsites, and hike back to Point Campground. 
  • Sunday, September 13, 2026: Drive home.

The total route is 14 miles, and the elevation gained over the two days will be 4,200'.

We can only accommodate two vehicles in camp, and the fee to each climber for the reserved campsites will be $23. I will circulate a carpool spreadsheet once the climb team is set, and I will request payment for the campsites via Venmo.

 

Other Information
Driving Distance from Portland 540 miles
Driving Time from Portland 9 hours
Expected Duration Car to car in two or more days
Relevant Maps MyTopo
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