Red Mountain

The view to the northeast from atop Red Mountain.

Trip Report (Semptember 24th, 1999):
The hike to the top of Red Mountain was one of the best I have been on. The hike follows a well maintained trail for a couple of miles, before turning onto a less used trail that leads to the top of the 8,722 foot summit. From the top, the view of the Red Mountain lakes is spectacular. Also, the view of the Sawtooth Mountains is tremendous. Also included in the summit view, are views of large tracts of forest in the Boise Mountains to the south and the Salmon River Mountains to the north.

Hike:
Take FST-145 for about xx miles to its junction with FS-083, which leads to the summit of Red Mountain. The junction between the two trails is not obvious, and FST-083 remains faint for a few hundred yards, before becoming readily apparent and easy to follow. The early part of the hike is very pleasant, as it meanders on flat, forested ground next to a stream. The last mile before junctioning with FST-083 becomes rather steep. FST-083 is a steep, switch backing trail that uses a lot of real estate on its way to the top of Red Mountain.

Drive:
From Boise, drive 72 car-sickness inducing miles to Lowman. Just past downtown Lowman, look for FS-582 heading north. Follow this excellent dirt road about 12 miles to a junction with FS-515, which you will turn onto and follow about 4 miles to the signed trailhead. At the trailhead, you will find restrooms and a forest service information bulletin board. This trailhead is easily accessible by passenger autos.

More Photos:

The view of the Red Mountain Lakes from atop Red Mountain.