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Sacajawea Peak Trail

Salmon-Challis National Forest, Idaho · 3 min read

Distance
11 mi
Elevation Gain
4,100 ft
Difficulty
strenuous
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through September
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
10 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Summit views of the Salmon River canyon, the Frank Church Wilderness, and the Lost River Range
  • The dominant peak visible from the town of Salmon
  • Seldom-visited summit given proximity to a town
  • Sub-alpine basin with summer wildflowers below the summit ridge
  • Panoramic Idaho wilderness views without the technical demands of Mount Borah

Overview

Sacajawea Peak rises to 10,303 feet above the Lemhi Valley northwest of Salmon, Idaho, the most prominent summit in the immediate skyline of the town. The 11-mile round trip in the Salmon-Challis National Forest gains 4,100 feet on a trail that sees remarkably few visitors given its proximity to a community. The result is a strenuous summit hike with genuine solitude and expansive views.

The name honors Sacajawea, the Lemhi Shoshone woman who guided the Lewis and Clark Expedition through this region in 1805. The expedition crossed the Continental Divide near here, and the Salmon River drainage visible from the summit was central to their route planning. The historical context adds depth to an already rewarding summit experience.

The Route

Trailhead Through Lower Slopes (0 to 2.0 miles)

The trail begins in open sagebrush country and climbs steadily toward the forest line. The lower approach is fully exposed and gains elevation quickly. Views of the Salmon River Valley open behind you within the first mile. Mountain mahogany appears on the rocky slopes.

Mid-Trail Basin (2.0 to 4.0 miles)

The trail enters a sub-alpine basin where seasonal water is available and the conifer cover provides brief shade. Wildflowers in this section peak through mid-July. The basin floor is a natural rest point before the steeper upper ridge section. The summit is visible from the basin.

Summit Ridge (4.0 to 5.5 miles)

The final push follows the summit ridge on rocky, exposed terrain. No technical scrambling is required, but the footing demands attention. Wind on the ridge is common and can be strong. The summit itself is open and the views survey a vast wilderness: the Frank Church Wilderness to the west, the Lost River Range to the south, and the Bitterroot Range across the Idaho-Montana line to the east.

When to Hike

July and August provide the most reliable conditions. Start early to be off the exposed ridge before afternoon thunderstorms develop.

September is excellent for solitude and clear air. Snow is possible at summit elevation by late September.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 3 liters of water for this strenuous route, with filtered creek water from the mid-trail basin supplementing. Wind and sun protection are essential on the exposed ridge. An early start is important for safety on this exposed summit.

Trailhead Access

The Sacajawea Peak Trailhead is on Forest Road 020 northwest of Salmon. The road is gravel. No fee or permit is required (as of 2026). No restroom is present. Space for 10 to 15 vehicles.

Dogs are permitted with a realistic assessment of your dog's fitness for the demanding ascent.

Nearby

Sacajawea Peak pairs well with Williams Lake Trail for a two-day visit to the Salmon area: lake hiking one day, summit hiking the next. Mount Borah Trail is the forest's definitive summit for those seeking the state high point. Check current conditions using the USFS guide and follow Leave No Trace principles throughout.

Trailhead Parking

Gravel lot at the Sacajawea Peak Trailhead off Forest Road 020 northwest of Salmon. Space for 10 to 15 vehicles.

← Back to Salmon-Challis National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Sacajawea Peak Trail take?
The 11-mile round trip with 4,100 feet of gain typically takes 6 to 8 hours for experienced hikers. The sustained climbing requires solid fitness. Allow time for the summit views and a careful descent.
Is Sacajawea Peak Trail dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are permitted. The upper rocky terrain near the summit is demanding for dogs but not technical. Assess your dog's fitness for the 4,100-foot gain.
Is there water on the Sacajawea Peak Trail?
Seasonal water is available in the mid-trail basin section around miles 2 to 3. The upper ridge and summit are dry. Carry sufficient water from the trailhead.