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11,900 ft · Teton Range, Wyoming

Nez Perce Peak

Nez Perce Peak is an 11,900 ft peak in the Teton Range, Wyoming. The standard route is the Northwest Couloirs: 11 mi, 5,140 ft of gain, Class 4.

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Nez Perce Peak in the Teton Range, Wyoming

Nez Perce Peak at a glance

  • Elevation11,900 ft3,627 m
  • RouteNorthwest CouloirsClass 4
  • Distance11 mi5,140 ft gain
  • Time12 – 14 hrsVery Hard effort
  • SeasonJul – Sep
  • RangeTeton RangeWyoming

Climbing the Northwest Couloirs

From Jackson, take US 191 north to Moose and the Teton Park Road to the Lupine Meadows Trailhead. Hike the Garnet Canyon trail to the Meadows, then cross talus south to the base of the north face. The Northwest Couloirs (Grade II, Class 4) link gullies and grassy ledges, then traverse under the summit headwall to two short Class 4 pitches. Route-finding in the upper 1,000 feet is the crux, and wrong turns lead onto low fifth class rock, so bring a rope for the optional rappel below the summit block. Expect loose rock and afternoon storms. A Grand Teton entrance pass is required.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (35–55 L)
  • Hiking Boots
  • Water
  • Offline Maps
  • Headlamp
  • Satellite Communicator
  • Whistle
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Sun Hat
  • Midlayer
  • Insulated Jacket
  • Hardshell Jacket
  • Warm Hat
  • Buff
  • Midweight Gloves
  • Trekking Poles
  • GPS Device
  • Power Bank
  • Water Filter
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Emergency Bivy
  • Helmet
  • Harness
  • Rope
  • Belay Device
  • Carabiners

What to watch for

  • Route-finding difficulty
  • Steep exposure
  • Loose rock
  • Rockfall
  • Storms

Quests with Nez Perce Peak

Peaks near Nez Perce Peak

  1. Disappointment Peak

    Disappointment Peak

    11,608 ft · 1.0 mi away

  2. Middle Teton

    Middle Teton

    12,803 ft · 1.0 mi away

  3. South Teton

    South Teton

    12,513 ft · 1.1 mi away

  4. Grand Teton

    Grand Teton

    13,775 ft · 1.5 mi away

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Nez Perce Peak?

Nez Perce Peak is 11,900 feet (3,627 m) tall. It is in the Teton Range, Wyoming.

How does Nez Perce Peak rank among the Teton 11,000ers?

At 11,900 feet, Nez Perce Peak is the 9th highest of the 28 Teton 11,000ers. The highest is Grand Teton.

How hard is it to climb Nez Perce Peak?

The Northwest Couloirs is Class 4, which means exposed scrambling, where many parties bring a rope. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 11 miles with 5,140 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to climb Nez Perce Peak?

Most people take 12 – 14 hours round trip on the Northwest Couloirs, covering 11 miles with 5,140 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.

Is Nez Perce Peak dangerous to climb?

It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious, rockfall from loose rock and fast-changing weather. Go with an experienced partner, wear a helmet, test holds before you trust them and turn back if the rock is wet or icy.

Do you need a rope to climb Nez Perce Peak?

Most parties bring one. The Northwest Couloirs is Class 4, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.

What time should you start climbing Nez Perce Peak?

Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 12 – 14 hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.

When is the best time to climb Nez Perce Peak?

The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

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