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Elevation: 10,800 ft
GPS: 42.86573, -109.29769
Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views: 92,792 total · 523/month
Shared By: Andrew Carson on Aug 24, 2009
Admins: Mike Snyder, Taylor Spiegelberg, Jake Dickerson

Description Suggest change

Baptiste Lake is deep in the Winds, nestled just east of the Divide at the headwaters of the South Fork of the Little Wind River. It is a wideopen setting, above timberline, surrounded by some of the Winds' most impressive scenery. Across the valley is the North Face of Mt. Hooker, and towering above the east shore of the lake is Musembeah Peak, a complicated mix of ridges, walls, and rocky couloirs. Mt. Lander, at the head of the Baptiste valley, is another proud summit, with many other lesser peaks offering a wide array of climbing objectives. The area is remote and one is likely to see more fisherpeople than climbers, although several routes are genuine classics. There's alot of room for new routes, and many established climbs are obscure and seldom visited. It's a great area for adventurous parties.
Fishing in Baptiste, once one of the best lakes in the range, declined in a shocking way through the last part of the 20th century, but is regaining its reputation and quality. Camping sites are aplenty but if the weather falls apart be prepared for a wild and windy experience.
Some of the peaks are located on the Wind River Indian Reservation, where special travel regulations may apply.

Getting There Suggest change

Parties can reach the Baptiste area from the Big Sandy trailhead, coming over Hailey Pass. That is one long hump of approximately 18 miles. Coming in from Dickenson Park on the east side will net you an approach of about 15 miles, and is probably the 'easiest' entry. Inquire with the Forest Service in Lander (Shoshone N.F.) about the road up to Dickenson, as conditions and travel restrictions change.

13 Total Climbs

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Classic Climbing Routes at Baptiste Lake

Mountain Project's determination of the classic, most popular, highest rated climbing routes in this area.
More Classic Climbs in Baptiste Lake »

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