First there was Thompson Peak at 10,776 feet, then Hyndman at 12,009 feet, Ryan Peak at 11,714 feet, and last year Castle Peak at 11,815 ft. Each peak was summited in the name of, and to raise money for, breast cancer research and awareness by Expedition Inspiration Fund for Breast Cancer Research. The final peak in the Five Peaks in Five Years campaign is Idaho's tallest mountain, Borah Peak, at 12,668 feet. The climb will take place Friday and Saturday, Aug. 22 and 23.
Located in the Lost River Range, it offers spectacular views of the Pahsimeroi and Big Lost River Valleys. An hour drive from Sun Valley, Borah Peak is flanked by seven of the state's nine 12,000-foot peaks.
The night before the climb, Expedition Inspiration's Borah Peak Team will camp in the Big Lost River Valley. Sawtooth Mountain Guides who will lead the climb will supply the site with food and other creature comforts. Early the next morning, Sawtooth Mountain Guides will lead the climbers up the 5,500-foot ascent of the regular West Ridge Route. The climb is primarily a non-technical hike and scramble, with some ropes required across the infamous Chicken Out Ridge. Upon summiting, the panorama will include spectacular views of the Pioneer and White Cloud Mountain Ranges.
The Borah Peak Team will gather for a celebration dinner in the Sun Valley area after a successful day on the peak.
Participants help the cause by raising funds above and beyond the cost of the adventure. The funds help cutting-edge breast cancer research projects.
Space is limited. Positions are still available on the Borah Peak Team. Sign up now and start fundraising for this important cause. Contact Expedition Inspiration at 208-726-6456 or email: ei@expeditioninspiration.org. Registration and complete information available at: www.expeditioninspiration.org.
Expedition Inspiration is offering a series of free training hikes in the Sun Valley area every Thursday at 9 a.m. to prepare for its Borah Peak Climb on Aug. 22 and 23. There will also be strength training tips and nutrition suggestions offered.
Participants are encouraged to bring friends, leashed dogs, a snack and water. Hikes will tale approximately 2 to 3 hours. Everyone is welcome to participate whether on the Expedition Inspiration Borah Peak Team or those who just want to enjoy the area's trails.
Photo by Josh Wells
Participants of the Castle Peak climb in 2007 enjoy a respite overlooking one of Idaho’s mountain ranges.
