Southwest Ridge

The southwest route is the standard route taken by most folks seeking to summit Mt. Borah. Begin at the Mt. Borah Trailhead and take the obvious trail. At about 9,800' you will clear the treeline and follow the ridge.

Once you reach approximately 11,500' you will encounter the infamous "Chicken-out Ridge". It's a 3rd class terrain feature with moderate exposure. The casual hiker often turns around at this point, but if you are comfortable on rock then you will have no problem. There are many options through this section, but for my less experienced party I traversed climber's right.

Down climbing Chicken Out Ridge

Once you pass the 'crux' simply follow the well worn climber's trail to the top to earn your tick. Descent via the same route.

Drive north on Hwy 93 past Mackay for 21 miles. There is a brown "Mt. Borah Trailhead" sign before the right hand turn onto Birch Springs Rd. Continue on unimproved gravel road until you reach the Borah campground. Parking is available here, and this is where the trailhead is located.