King Mountain

Elevation: 10,760 ft
Prominence: 2,400

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Climbing and access information for this peak is on Page 289 of the book.


King Mountain is one of the most massive peaks in the State of Idaho. It is the 168th-highest Idaho summit and, in terms of prominence, it ranks #50. It is a great mountain by any measure. As a result of the mapmakers placing the peak’s name on the peak’s [lower] middle summit, most people who attempt King Mountain stop at its lower summit which is 10,612 feet and is unranked.

The true summit of this peak is referred to as North King Mountain by LOJ and Peakbagger. Clearly, the highest point on this great mountain is the summit of King Mountain, not the [lower] middle summit. I do not have any problem with people counting the 10,612-foot peak as a separate peak, but if you want to climb King Mountain follow the long, enjoyable ridge north to the true summit. USGS Ramshorn Canyon

King Mountain from the Little Lost River valley.

King Mountain as viewed from the Little Lost River Valley.

King Mountain is probably better known for hang glider launch point than as a must do Lost River Peak. Thanks to the popularity of the launch point, there is a descent road which takes to nearly 8,000 feet.

King Mountain is probably better known for its hang glider launch point than as a must-do Lost River Range peak. Thanks to the popularity of the launch point, there is a decent road which goes to nearly 8,000 feet.

The ridge/rib from the launch point to the peak's 10,612 foot middle summit is steep and eventually melts into the west face.

The ridge/rib from the launch point to the peak’s 10,612-foot Middle Summit is steep and eventually melts into the West Face.

Dana Hansen climbing a Class 3 cliff on the peak's west face.

Dana Hansen climbing a Class 3 cliff on the peak’s West Face.

Evidently most people who climb King Mountai do not visit the true summit. This shot shows the true summit King Mountain when viewed from near the lower summit.

The True Summit of King Mountain as viewed from near the Middle Summit. The intervening summit ridge is a classic walk.

Climbers traversing the summit ridge between the Middle and true summit.

Climbers traversing the summit ridge between the Middle Summit and the True Summit.

Almost there!

Almost there!

Additional Resources

Mountain Range: Lost River Range

Year Climbed: 1991

Longitude: -113.26279   Latitude: 43.79301

Photos:

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