It's been many years since I last visited the Lost River Range, more specifically: Leatherman. The mountain has echoed in my mind for all these years and I finally made it back to take its challenge. The mountain wouldn't let me try without a fight. Here is my journey.
Life has kept me busy and it's been a long time since tackling such a climb. This was to my disadvantage, as well as the snow conditions. Ideally for this time of year, it would have been better to make the climb in the morning (night temps were near 33 degrees) and letting the snow harden overnight vs in the afternoon when it's actively melting and too soft. That or wait until the snow has melted.
Timeline:
00:00 The Beginning
01:11 The Drive
03:00 Camp
04:00 Sheltering from Thunderstorms
07:18 To Base Camp
08:50 Meadow Base Camp
10:19 The Climb
11:57 ABORT
13:53 Climb Retro
Getting There:
Last time I visited Leatherman Pass via Sawmill Gulch, a much more accessible route just outside of Mackay, ID. This time I would be taking the more scenic route via the West Fork of the Pahsimeroi. The first few miles of the road aren't bad. Once past the cabin the road becomes progressively worse with larger rocks along the route. I aired down to 20psi to balance comfort and ease my mind over the sharp rocks. Horse Heaven Pass Road eventually gets you to the trail head with several nice camping locations and a pit toilet. Here the Pass Lake and Merriam Lake trails begin.