Although North Thunder Mountain only rests a few miles from a thriving metropolis of a million residents, this mountain is one of the most isolated and rarely-visited peaks in the Wasatch Mountain Range. Each year, between 10 to 15 climbers appear on the summit log, an astounding contrast from its neighbors, Lone Peak and Pfeifferhorn, which can see 10 to 15 climbers in a day. One of the reasons could be that North Thunder Mountain has no trails covering its territory. Climbers must hike long distances or scramble very steep terrain to approach the summit. Yet the characteristics that keep the mountain lonely, also contribute to its solitude, incredible wildlife, and remote beauty.

North Thunder Mountain is typically summited from Bells Canyon during a grueling dayhike, or a more manageable day and a half trip. A more exciting route is Coalpit Gulch which climbs 5,080 feet in 2.5 miles, and includes some fantastic 4th Class scrambling and wonderful views. The most challanging route is "The Needle" which is a narrow, steep couloir ripping up the east face for 1,400 vertical feet at a constant 50-degree pitch.