Thompson Peak
Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ +
Scenery: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Mileage: 13 mi
Region: Sawtooth Wilderness Area
Elev. Gain: 4,170 ft
When to Go: Jun—Sep
Avg. Time: 7-9 hr
Parking: Large unpaved lot
Type: Out & Back
Pass: None
Know Before You Go:
Thompson Peak is the highest point in the Sawtooth Range.
Only recommended for experienced hikers. If you attempt to reach the peak you should be comfortable navigating boulder and snow fields, and steep, exposed ridges with sharp drop-offs.
The trail is easy to follow until hitting the 9,000 ft unnamed lake. Be sure to download the offline map for navigation as there are no cairns or paths to follow from this point to the summit.
The final stretch includes hand-feet Class 3 scrambling far above tree line and there is no cell service until the very top.
Be sure to check weather reports before attempting - the top is extremely exposed and would be a bad place to get caught in inclement weather.
Bring a water filter, layers, and a portable battery pack for navigation.
