Why Thompson Peak in Idaho Is One of the Best Hikes

One of the best ways to see the great outdoors in the Gem State is hiking through the Sawtooth Mountains. This wild yet gorgeous range is teaming with alpine lakes, waterfalls, towering trees, and wildlife, offering an immersive journey through one of the most stunning natural showcases in the country. Hiking to the top of Thompson Peak in Idaho is one of our favorite experiences, especially while staying at our lodge.

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How to Make the Most of Your Hike to Thompson Peak in Idaho

Book an Excursion With Sawtooth Mountain Guides

Hiking up to the top of Thompson Peak is challenging, especially for beginners. We recommend booking an excursion with Sawtooth Mountain Guides. This trusted local outdoor adventure company provides eight to ten-hour day trips to several mountains in the Sawtooths, including Thompson Peak.

Getting There

Reaching the starting point for your trek up Thompson Peak is easy when you stay at the Redfish Lake Lodge! Just walk north of our resort grounds to the Redfish Trailhead parking lot. Once you reach the lot, head to the Fishhook Creek Trail entrance, and you’ll be ready to go!

Hiking to Thompson Peak on the Fishhook Creek Trail

Your trek to Thompson Peak in Idaho begins on the Fishhook Creek Trail. About a mile after leaving the Redfish Trailhead parking lot, you’ll reach a grove of beautiful aspen trees that will lead you up to your first picture-worthy viewpoint. This ridge offers fantastic views of the valley below for a couple of miles. Next, you will pass through the wilderness boundary, where you’ll need to put your free permit in a box. Once you cross the boundary, you will continue left at the next fork in the trail. If you follow the path to the right, you can access Marshall Lake for a fun detour.

The final ascent towards Idaho’s Thompson Peak is challenging, but most casual hikers can reach the deep blue lake at the base of the mountain. This area boasts incredible views of the surrounding Sawtooth Mountains and is a great spot to enjoy a snack or take a break. The casual hiker should not continue up the mountain past this point without a guide, as this portion of the trek is challenging and can be dangerous for those with adequate hiking experience.

Of course, if you are an experienced hiker, the final ascent to the top of Thompson Peak in Idaho is quite a climb. Roughly a mile of steep, rocky terrain awaits you as you climb about another 1,500 feet above the lake area. This part of the journey is incredibly challenging but also very rewarding. Once you reach the summit, you can say that you climbed the tallest peak in the Sawtooths (standing at 10,751 feet).

What to Pack

If you want to make the most out of your hike up to Thompson Peak in Idaho, 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

Discover Your Dream Vacation

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! If we’re closed for the winter season or booked during your selected dates, check out our three sister properties around the corner in Stanley. We look forward to welcoming you to the Redfish family!