mountaineering - granite peak, montana - July 3, 2026
This is an alpine climbing trip to Montana's state highpoint - Granite Peak - nestled deep in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. This is considered one of the most difficult state highpoints to bag in the Lower 48, largely due to it's remote nature, potential technicalities en-route, and highly variable weather.
We will be approaching Granite Peak from the South, via. an off-trail route around Aero Lakes. This is an exceptionally scenic hike in itself, but also quite demanding, as much of it is off trail with mandatory river crossings. After 14-ish miles we will make camp at Sky Top Lake, set below the Villard Spires and just in view of the S. Face of Granite.
The Southwest Ramp is the standard route from here. In prime conditions this is a 3rd class scramble, but in July you can expect moderate angle snow, patches of ice, and an abundance of loose rock. Technical mountain gear will be required. We will budget an extra summit day for contingency and spend a day to hike out via. Sky Top Drainage. (3+1 days total)
This trip will be limited to 6 climbers on the SW Ramp. Organizer has climbed this route before. This is not a guided activity and climbers are expected to be self-sufficient in technical mountain terrain. Additional backpackers will be allowed to join up to Sky Top Lake. Inquire with the organizer if interested, to include a summary of recent mountain experience.
| Organizer: | Nathan C |
| Date: | Fri Jul 3 2026 — Mon Jul 6 2026 |
| Meeting Place: | Register with the Organizer |