Mount Church and Donaldson Peak Trail

This is a long and strenuous hike. A complete ascent and descent typically takes between 10 to 14 hours, depending on your pace and conditions. It's crucial to start early to allow ample daylight.

The terrain is consistently challenging. You'll encounter well-defined sections that quickly give way to rougher, less stable ground. Expect drainages with deadfall, loose rock, and extensive scree slopes, often described as 'treadmill rubble'. There are also steep sections, a prominent headwall, and 'airy ridge walking' between the peaks. Route-finding can be difficult, and solid slabs, talus, and potentially snow and ice in shaded areas add to the complexity.

No, the Mount Church and Donaldson Peak Trail is consistently rated as a difficult and strenuous hike, not suitable for beginners. It involves significant elevation gain (around 4,800 to 5,100 feet), Class 3 scrambling, and even Class 4 sections on Donaldson Peak. The unstable rock, difficult route-finding, and exposed ridge sections require experience in challenging alpine environments.

The primary draw is summiting both Mount Church (Idaho's 3rd highest) and Donaldson Peak (Idaho's 8th highest). Along the way, you'll experience 'insane' and 'spectacular' views of the rugged Lost River Range, including unnamed tarns, a natural arch near the col, and panoramic vistas of surrounding peaks like Leatherman Peak and Lost River Peak. The mountains themselves are noted for their 'incredibly unique' and 'weird layers'.

The best time to hike is typically during the late summer and early fall months, usually from July through September, when snow has melted from higher elevations. Even then, be prepared for potential snow and ice in shaded areas or on the ridge, which can make conditions treacherous.

The trail officially begins at the Mount Church and Donaldson Peak Trailhead. Information regarding specific parking facilities or access details should be verified with the Salmon-Challis National Forest, as conditions can change.

The Mount Church and Donaldson Peak Trail is located within the Salmon-Challis National Forest. Generally, there are no entrance fees for accessing national forests. However, specific permits might be required for certain activities or overnight stays. It's always best to check the official Salmon-Challis National Forest website or contact a local ranger station for the most current regulations before your trip.

While many national forest trails allow dogs, the extreme difficulty, loose rock, steep scrambling, and potential for exposure on this particular route make it highly unsuitable and potentially dangerous for most dogs. If you choose to bring a dog, ensure they are extremely fit, experienced in Class 3/4 terrain, and that you are prepared for the added challenges and risks.

Given the trail's difficulty, you should bring sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, plenty of water (there's no reliable water source on the trail), high-energy food, navigation tools (map, compass, GPS), layers of clothing for varying weather, and sun protection. Due to the risk of rockfall and the technical nature of the climb, a helmet is highly recommended. Trekking poles can be helpful for the scree, but may be cumbersome during scrambling sections.

Many hikers consider the prominent headwall between the two peaks to be the crux of the climb. It is described as both steep and loose. Additionally, the 'airy ridge walking' connecting Donaldson Peak and Mount Church involves route-finding and can be 'sketchy' due to slipperiness and exposure, especially if snow or ice is present.

The Mount Church and Donaldson Peak Trail is generally considered an out-and-back route, with hikers returning the same way they ascended after summiting both peaks. The described distance and duration typically refer to the round trip.