Page Type Page Type: Mountain/Rock
Location Lat/Lon: 44.85450°N / 115.9485°W
Additional Information County: Valley
Activities Activities: Hiking
Seasons Season: Summer, Fall
Additional Information Elevation: 7970 ft / 2429 m
Sign the Climber's Log

Overview

Getting ThereThe north summit, marked on the map, is a rocky point with an awesome view of a hidden cirque (we were surprised!.. but a steep, rocky north face is pretty normal for a peak in the Lick Creek range). The southern summit is a big, flat and grassy affair, but actually higher. Together, these two summits have a faint resemblance to human anatomy and are thus known to locals as "Dolly Parton." Seriously. And don't blame me.

Twin Peaks sit between Boulder Mountain and Jughandle Mountain. Because of the proximity to these other, taller peaks, Twin Peaks doesn't look like much from the surrounding area. But according to Lists of John, they do have 320' of prominence. And there is a great loop available for strong hikers that will take in all three peaks with connecting trails and not too much bushwacking.

Route stats
The route described here is about 2.9 miles each way, with a gain of about 1700'. Class 1 except the last quarter mile or so, which is Class 2. There are shortcuts available, but they are Class 2 bushwacks. Following the marked route, this climb is a short, easy climb suitable for beginners.

About 1.5 miles south of the traffic light at the McCall airport/Hwy 55, turn east on Farm to Market Road (paved). Follow this road through four 90 degree bends. After a bridge crossing Lake Fork Creek and at another 90 degree bend, turn left (actually go straight; the bend goes right) on FS-403 and head up the hill. Shortly after the top of the hill, the pavement ends. Stay on the main road, and reach the parking at Boulder Reservoir in about 5 miles from the end of the pavement.

There are parking spaces all over, but sometimes finding an empty space is a challenge because the reservoir is a popular local fishing hole.

From the lower parking area, follow the trail to Louie Lake. The trail is near the western end of all the parking spaces, and immediately crosses the creek. Follow the trail up through a logged are and eventually connect with an ancient jeep road to Louie Lake. From Louie Lake, go to climber's left (east) of the lake. The trail, now much smaller, starts climbing immediately. Follow the trail until you are below the summit and simply follow your nose to the summit. From the higher south summit, it is an easy (and recommended) 10 minute walk to the south summit.

Red Tape

None.

Check the weather and road conditions (see below). This is snow country, so the road is closed roughly November to March.

Camping

Although there are campsites at the trailhead, for spoiled mountaineers it is too busy for good camping. Boulder Lake offers some nice spots, but don't expect to be alone, as this is another popular fishing spot.

For even more spoiled mountaineers, you can stay in McCall at either one of the many hotels, or try Ponderosa State Park (usually requires reservations).

For additional information on this climb and other peaks in the area, please see Tom Lopez's excellent book, Idaho: A Climbing Guide.

Weather

This is snow country, so check ahead.