Trip Report
We had originally planned on climbing a few peaks in the White Clouds, but the Bible Back fire changed our minds.
Luckily I was familiar with Rip and Tear Peak (Peak 10185) nearby. Rip and Tear Peak is a pointy summit located just north of Galena Lodge and Idaho 75. While a relatively short jaunt, the peak is impressive from all angles.
After parking at the Gladiator Pass trailhead, we signed into the registration box and were on our way through a thick forest canopy. The day was cool with a nice breeze!
The initial trail is wide and has great tread, as it doubles as the Rip and Tear mountain bike trail. At around 7800', the trail forks. You will take the signed left fork heading to Gladiator Pass.
After the fork, the trail isn't as wide and smooth, with occasional dead-fall. However, it is still easy to follow. As the trail ascends, the trees thin and the views increase. The yellow flowers along Gladiator Creek were quite impressive. Also impressive are the views of the rugged peak you are going to be climbing.
Once at the 9800 foot Gladiator Pass, your views expand as you can now see Castle Peak and the White Cloud mountains. From the pass, you will turn right, ascending the east ridge of Rip and Tear Peak. We mostly stayed on the south side of the ridge, just below the ridgeline. The traverse is a bit of a pain, but will soon lead you to the base of the summit block.
From the base of the summit block, you have about 100 feet of climbing to go. The crux is about halfway up the block. There are numerous ways to take, so specifics aren't required, just pick the route that looks best to you. The last 50 feet still require care, but are mostly a walk-up.
There is a small cairn and a metal spike on the summit. The views are tremendous, with Galena Peak dominating the views south and Castle Peak dominating the views north.
Our hike down was uneventful. At just over 4 hours (and that was with breaks and lots of photos), this is a quick peak to climb.
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