Hyndman Peak Hike

While the Hyndman Peak Hike is one of the more manageable 12er ascents, it is no walk in the park—but the stunning scenery offers some pretty great motivation. Explore montane meadows, subalpine forests, meandering streams, and rock fields on your arduous ascent. Be sure to head out in the early morning to arrive back at the trailhead before nightfall and pack plenty of water and snacks to stay fueled. Additionally, we encourage trekkers to dress in layers as insurance against ever-changing conditions, and it is wise to wear SPF as much of the route is exposed. Don’t forget to download the trail GPS before heading out; sections of the hike are difficult to navigate.

Setting out from the trailhead, you will be guided eastwardly along the Hyndman Creek Trail. This scenic path alternates through lush meadows and shaded forests as it contours the curves of the babbling stream. As you wander, keep an eye out for elk and deer grazing in the meadows and moose camouflaging in the woodlands. After some hiking, the route will redirect you northwardly, exploring more exposed terrain. Eventually, you will reach a small pond where the established path ends. From here, the terrain becomes increasingly rocky, leading you northeastwardly into the mountain cirque.

Admire the scene of the surrounding craggy peaks, then continue up to the saddle between Hyndman Peak and Old Hyndman Peak. Turn left here, and scramble northwest up the rocky scree to the summit of Hyndman Peak. The 360-degree views of Idaho’s mountain ranges will render you speechless. Take your time and admire the breathtaking scenery before retracing your steps back down the path to the trailhead.