What You Need to Know About Elephant’s Perch Rock Climbing

Are you searching for the ultimate adventure in the Sawtooths? Well, rock climbing on the Elephant’s Perch is one of the most exciting ways to experience the thrill of trekking to the top of a scenic rock formation. The rewards at the top are incredible, and a local guide company offers incredible tours for those with little or no experience.  

For more ways to make the most of your trip to the Sawtooths, be sure to request access to our complimentary Vacation Guide! 

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Your Guide to Elephant’s Perch Rock Climbing 

Sawtooth Mountain Guides 

We recommend booking a Sawtooth Mountain Guides excursion for rock climbing the Elephant’s Perch. This is a challenging journey for all skill levels, and their two-day guided tour is a fantastic way to experience the trek up this renowned rock formation. 

Booking a Sawtooth Mountain Guides trip is a requirement if you do not have the proper experience and gear for this highly technical climb. 

How to Get There 

The best way to reach Elephant’s Perch is by our Redfish Lake boat shuttle. If you’re staying with us at the Redfish Lake Lodge, you can hop on one of these shuttles to the Redfish Creek Trailhead. This will take you to the trailhead. The boat leaves on demand and picks up 9 a.m., 12 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m. every day. 

To begin climbing Elephant’s Perch, you need to hike to the Saddleback Lakes on the Redfish Creek Trailhead. Once you disembark the boat shuttle, you’ll take the Redfish Lake Canyon Trail to face of the mountain.   

As you hike along this gorgeous trail, you can soak in the stunning 360-degree views of the Sawtooth peaks, including Grand Mogul, Braxon Peak, and Mount Heyburn. Wildflowers provide an accent of color to the stunning scenery, and birding is also a popular activity during the hike. Be sure to read up on specific instructions to ensure that the creek crossing is accessible, as much of this trail is not a U.S. Forest service approved trail. 

After you trek up a steep and challenging hike up to the first Saddleback Lake, the real challenge begins. From here, you will begin your climb up to the top of Elephant’s Perch. If you’re an experienced climber, the Mountain Project has a great guide on the best ways to ascend and descend this stately rock formation. 

What to Pack 

If you want to make the most out of your Elephant’s Perch climb, bring enough supplies to last you for a day-long trip. Here’s what we suggest you pack: 

• Rain jacket 
• Backpack 
• Extra pair of comfy socks 
• Camera 
• Sunscreen 
• Snacks 
• Bug repellent 
• Hiking shoes 
• Water 

Book Your Redfish Stay

Redfish Lake Lodge offers visitors the ultimate getaway to the Sawtooth Mountains. Our beautiful lakeside resort features a one-of-a-kind collection of accommodations, activities, and on-site dining that combines modern-day comforts in a rustic, family-friendly atmosphere. You can enhance your stay with one of our specials. 

What are you waiting for? Book your stay with us and start planning your getaway today! We look forward to welcoming you to the Redfish family! 

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How to Have the Ultimate Adventure on the Alpine Lake Trail in Idaho 5 of the Best Day Hikes in the Sawtooth Mountains What Is the Best Way to Hike to the Bench Lakes? Experience Our Area With the Sawtooth Mountain Guides