Elevation: 4,628 ft
Prominence: 288
This peak is not in the book. Published January 2019
Wilson Bluff is the first peak you encounter as you proceed southwest on Wilson Creek Road. Its eastern and southern walls are composed of dark volcanic rock that forms impressive walls and towers. Its northern and western slopes are less steep and are open and grass-covered. There are many potential lines to the top, but the Northwest Ridge route is the most straightforward. Even though Wilson Bluff isn’t a ranked peak, it’s an enjoyable climb and is highly recommended. USGS Soldier Cap
Access
Access is via the Wilson Creek Road. This road is a major access point into the Owyhee Mountains. Follow the road south past the peak’s East Face where the road takes a sharp turn west and starts to climb. Immediately after this turn, there is a steep turnoff and parking spot. Park here.
Northwest Ridge, Class 2
From your parking spot, look for a gate blocking an old road. The gate has a sign limiting travel behind it to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. The BLM re-vegetated/seeded the area behind the sign after a fire, but the road is easy to discern and follow. The road eventually turns into a trail. Follow this route west and then north to a saddle on the peak’s Northwest Ridge. Follow the Northwest Ridge to the summit. Here you will find a rocky summit area and a summit register. This route is climbable in dry conditions year-round but is not recommended when wet. This is one of the nicest hikes you will find in the Owyhee Mountains.
This gate marks the beginning of the route.
The impressive South Face of Wilson Bluff.
Looking north toward the saddle on the Northwest Ridge of Wilson Bluff.
The Northwest Ridge is broad and easy cross-country terrain.
My GPS track for Wilson Bluff. My route covers 4.6 miles round trip with 1,000 feet of elevation gain.
Additional Resources
Regions: Owyhee Mountains->SOUTHERN IDAHO
Mountain Range: Owyhee Mountains
Year Climbed: 2019
Longitude: -116.76559 Latitude: 43.32619