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Hominy Peak Trail

Targhee National Forest, Idaho · 3 min read

Distance
7.8 mi
Elevation Gain
2,100 ft
Difficulty
moderate-hard
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
June through October
Est. Time
5-7 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
8 / 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 spanning the Snake River Plain and Bear River Range
  • Open terrain with scattered aspen groves and summer wildflowers
  • Less visited area of Targhee in the southern forest sections
  • Good chance of solitude even on summer weekends
  • Rocky summit with natural wind shelter for lunch breaks
viewssummitwildflowerswildlife

Overview

The Hominy Peak Trail in Targhee National Forest climbs into the southern sections of the forest, a quieter area that sees far less traffic than the Teton-facing trailheads to the north. The route ascends through open forest and scattered aspen groves to a rocky summit at approximately 8,800 feet, delivering broad views over the Snake River Plain and the adjacent Bear River Range.

This corner of the forest sits near the Idaho-Wyoming border and offers a perspective on the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem that is distinctly different from the dramatic Teton views to the north. The landscape is softer and more undulating, with wide-open sightlines that stretch to distant mountain ranges in multiple directions.

The Route

The trail begins at the Hominy Creek Trailhead and follows the creek drainage upstream before turning and climbing directly toward the peak. The forest becomes more open as elevation increases, transitioning from lodgepole to scattered whitebark pine and subalpine fir in the upper sections. The rocky summit area is reached via a short scramble on loose scree.

What to Expect

The upper trail is not heavily maintained and some routefinding may be required above treeline. A topographic map or GPS device is recommended. The summit exposure makes it vulnerable to afternoon weather; build in extra time. Bring extra water as the upper sections have no reliable sources.

Nearby

The town of Soda Springs, Idaho is the nearest service center with fuel and basic supplies. The Bear Gulch Trail provides an alternative moderate hike in the same southern section of the forest. The Caribou-Targhee National Forest's dual designation means some maps show this area under the combined forest name.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Safety Considerations

The moderate-hard rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Targhee National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.

Trailhead Parking

Hominy Creek Trailhead off Forest Road 102 east of Soda Springs. Gravel lot with room for 10 vehicles. No fee.

← Back to Targhee National Forest

More Trails in Targhee National Forest

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Moose Creek Trail

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Teton Crest Trail South

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Hike the southern section of the Teton Crest Trail through Targhee National Forest, Idaho. This strenuous 14.0-mile point-to-point crosses high alpine passes with dramatic views of the Teton Range.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Hominy Peak Trail?
The 7.8-mile out-and-back is rated moderate-hard with 2,100 feet of sustained elevation gain. The climb is steady throughout with no flat recovery sections. Most fit hikers complete the round trip in 5 to 7 hours.
When does the Hominy Peak Trail open?
The lower sections are typically accessible by early June, while the summit area clears of snow by late June in average years. Check road conditions for Forest Road 102 before visiting, as it may require high-clearance vehicles in spring.
What is visible from the Hominy Peak summit?
On clear days, the summit reveals views north over the Snake River Plain toward the Tetons, east into the Bear River Range, and west toward the Caribou Mountains. The summit sits at approximately 8,800 feet.
Is this trail in a wilderness area?
The Hominy Peak area is not within a designated wilderness but does fall within Targhee National Forest backcountry. The trail sees minimal maintenance and hikers should be comfortable with route-finding on the upper sections.