Peak 11272 (Mount Andrus)

Climbing and access information for this peak is on Page 223 of the book. I added several photos by Pat McGrane which show the ridge’s granite terrain. Updated October 2018


Peak 11272 is an impressive, pyramidal-shaped granite mountain that culminates in a pointed summit block that barely accommodates two climbers. It currently resides at #5 on my list of Favorite Idaho Climbs. Since it is centrally located, it is an ideal place to orient yourself to the surrounding peaks and the nearby Sawtooth, Lost River and Pioneer Ranges. The Northeast Ridge is an enjoyable Class 3+ scramble.

I recommend naming the peak after the late Cecil Andrus who helped save the White Cloud Mountains from molybdenum mining. I will make that proposal to the Board of Geographic Names five years after the Governor’s death as required by law. Below, you will find a number of photos of the peak from many of the surrounding summits as well as links to two trip reports. USGS Boulder Chain Lakes

Peak 11272.
Peak 11272 with Castle Peak behind and to the right. The Class 3+ Northeast Ridge rises from lower left to the summit.
Cove Lake and WCP-10 behind Alex Feldman on the lower section of the Northeast Ridge. Pat McGrane Photo
Cove Lake and WCP-10 behind Alex Feldman on the lower section of the Northeast Ridge. Pat McGrane Photo
Alex Feldman ascending the northeast ridge. Pat McGrane Photo
Alex Feldman ascending the Northeast Ridge. Pat McGrane Photo
Prayer flags found along the way. Pat McGane Photo
Prayer flags found along the way. Pat McGrane Photo
The granite composing the northeast ridge makes the route a classic. Pat McGrane Photo
The granite composing the Northeast Ridge makes this route a classic. Pat McGrane Photo
The summit of Peak 11272 with its studded granite crown reminds me of California's Sierra Nevada Mountains.
The summit of Peak 11272 with its studded granite crown reminds me of California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Peak 11272 from Blackmon Peak.
Peak 11272 as viewed from Blackmon Peak.
Peak 11272 from WCP-8.
Peak 11272 as viewed from WCP-8.
Peak 11272 from WCP-8.
Peak 11272 as viewed from WCP-8.
Peak 11272 viewed from Caulkens Peak.
Peak 11272 as viewed from Calkins Peak.