Elevation: 9,705 ft
Prominence: 3,205
Climbing and access information for this peak is on Pages 117-118 of the book.
Big Baldy Peak is one of my favorite climbs. This massive summit, which should be on every hiker’s to-do list, is an island in the sky. It anchors the east end of Big Baldy Ridge which runs east from Pistol Rock. It is the highest Salmon River Mountains summit west of the Middle Fork and dominates a huge section of country. It is also the Valley County high point.
The ridge walk from the west is a classic way to experience the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness without traveling along its many rivers. Round-trip distance for the route in the book is 32 miles. Estimates by climbers of the round-trip elevation gain vary from 8,800 to 9,800 feet. Use the link below for John Platt’s 2016 trip report. The area burned recently and his report will give you a better idea of current conditions. USGS Big Baldy
Big Baldy Peak as viewed from the west. John Platt Photo
The summit is a long way off in this shot.
The summit of Big Baldy Peak, which has an active fire lookout during the Summer.
Buck Lake is a great place to lay over for a climb of Big Baldy Peak.
Another view of Buck Lake. The trail to the peak passes above the lake, but a side trail leads down to this excellent camping spot.
The terrain along the Big Baldy Ridge Trail.
Additional Resources
Regions: Central Salmon River Mountains->Johnson Creek - Middle Fork Divide Peaks->Salmon River Mountains->WESTERN IDAHO
Mountain Range: Central Salmon River Mountains
Year Climbed: 1991