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Climbing and access information for the La Fiamma formation is discussed on Pages 196-197 of the book. The elevation and prominence figures are estimated because the formation is not shown on the USGS topo. Updated August 2026

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La Fiamma is an impressive rock spire located on the southwest shoulder of Packrat Peak. It was first climbed by Fred Beckey, Steve Marts, and Dan Davis in 1963. See IDAHO, SAWTOOTH RANGE, LA FIAMMA in the American Alpine Journal. Its namesake is a famous tower in the Alps. The AAJ report mentions the fragility of the formation but based on Derek Percoski’s 2024 photos (below) it doesn’t look as if it was damaged by the last earthquake. I know of no subsequent ascents. There route is described in detail below. USGS Warbonnet Peak

The following route description of the climb is from Dan Davis’ journal:

September 23, 1962

La Fiamma (the first ascent)

Located in the Sawtooth Range of Idaho, near the end of the ridge leading south from Packrat.

From the upper notch of the pinnacle climb up the broken up face to a notch on the north side of the pinnacle. From this upper notch traverse around the west face on a flake to a chimney on the SW side of the pinnacle. Climb the chimney until you can climb out onto the west face of the minor pinnacle. Then climb the minor pinnacle to its top, from here one can step over onto a small ledge of the major pinnacle. Then climb the last part of the major pinnacle with the aid of a bolt and several pitons on its west side.

The climb was a difficult and very exposed class 5 + 6 with an occassional lack of piton cracks.

The chimney was very narrow.

Cold and very threatening weather conditions.

Climbed with Fred Beckey and Steve Marts switching leads.