Leatherman Peak

Elevation
12,228 ft
Climbing Route
Northeast Gully
Rating
Class 3
Elevation Gain
4,000 ft
Round Trip Distance
8.3 Miles
Round Trip Time
8 Hours
Water
Water is easily accessible for the first 2.5 miles from the West Fork Pahsimeroi River
Name
Named after Henry Leatherman, a 19th-Century teamster in the Lost River Valley. He is buried within sight of the mountain
First Ascent
USGS surveyor T.M. Bannon in 1914
Nearest Town
Mackay, ID
Prominence
1,667 ft
GPX File
Leatherman Peak Northeast Gully GPX
Map File
Leatherman Peak Northeast Gully Topo Map

The eastern approach of Idaho’s 2nd tallest mountain takes hikers deep into the stunning and seldom visited Pahsimeroi Valley. This eastern route, now considered the standard route, is challenging to reach in a vehicle compared to the western approach, but it provides a safer route up the mountain through a panoramic setting. The trail is well defined until the gully. Be prepared for light scrambling just below the summit.


Climbing Route
Northeast Gully
Rating
Class 3+
Elevation Gain
3,900 ft
Round Trip Distance
6.75 Miles
Round Trip Time
8 Hours
Water
Water is available from a creek for the first mile, season dependent
GPX File
Leatherman Peak West Ridge GPX
Map File
Leatherman Peak West Ridge Topo Map

Once considered the standard route up the mountain, Leatherman’s western approach is not for the novice hiker. The rotten talus chutes and treacherous cliffs are difficult to navigate and are better left for the experienced climber. Still, those who do climb the route will find a unique approach and a wonderful view from Leatherman Pass.