Granite Peak - Montana Highpoint

Highpoint rank by height: 10th. Granite Peak was the last of the fifty state highpoints to be climbed. It wasn't until August 23, 1923 that a party of three climbers finally made the summit. Three factors can contribute to making this a most memorable trip. First, it is almost a sure bet that you will have to endure at least one severe lightning/hail storm. Second, either the mosquitoes or various rodents will conspire to make your waking hours a living hell. Third, depending upon your fear of exposure, the rock scrambling/climbing section of the climb will leave you with a lasting memory that should be good for a few beers with the gang back at home. If these factors don't do it for you, let's throw in a route finding adventure somewhere along the way that will fill the gap! The best time (is this an oxymoron or what!) to climb Granite is purported to be in August. WARNING: This is not a peak to be attempted during a period of potentially severe weather, as it is a very serious undertaking. Take enough provisions with you to wait out the weather and make the climb on another day. You may need to melt snow for water at your high camp on Froze to Death Plateau, so plan accordingly. Froze to Death Plateau . . . Tempest Mountain — sounds like Edgar Allen Poe slept here. These names should give you some indication of the notorious weather of this area. Remember, if you can't take a joke, you shouldn't be out there climbing. I'm sure this climb has been done as a day hike, but for the normal human being, a multi-day backpack/climb seems like the more intelligent choice.