Diamond Peak is 12,197 feet, the 4th tallest peak in Idaho. The east ridge is a class 3 route.

Topo of the route

Photos by Tad Schafer

East Ridge, Class 3

Access to the east ridge is via Pass Creek Road, FS-181, from ID-28 just south of Lone Pine, which has a small gas station and a motel. Follow Pass Creek Rd for 2 miles east to a two track road that runs north, crossing Pass Creek and climbing up and to the left onto the flats above. In another mile take the left fork which leads due east above the North Fork of Pass Creek. A 4wd is recommended at this point, although we saw a commuter van from BYU-Idaho with students. Stay left at the next junction. Another junction, a few hundred feet away, leads due south dropping down to cross the North Fork of Pass Creek for an alternative route, which may be more preferable due to the spacious parking and view of the peak.. We stayed to the right which leads further up the North Fork of Pass Creek.

At the end of the road we hiked to the south up through the dense trees headed for the ridge. Once on top, in moonlight, we proceeded up the east ridge quickly leaving the tree line. The sunrise was brilliant on the mountain. Views of the Riddler could be seen to the south. The route continues up the east ridge becoming steeper and the ridge narrows. About 500 feet below the summit, an in-your-face class 3 scramble is the crux of the climb, but rewarding.

On top the Lost Rivers and Mt Borah are to the east. Bell Mtn and the northern Lemhis are easily recognized. We returned the way we came.