Alpine Lakes Intermediate Adventure

Expedition Itinerary: Alpine Lakes Loop

Primary Objective: loop hike

Trip Duration: 4 days

Total Estimated Mileage: ~40 miles

Experience Level: moderate

Terrain Type: alpine lakes

- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): 6200 ft

- Start and end trailhead: Eagle Cap Trailhead, OR

- GPS coordinates: 45.2377, -117.1908

PERMITS & ENTRY

- Requirement: Yes

- Issuing agency/jurisdiction: USFS

- How to apply: Self-issued permit at trailhead kiosk — free, complete before departure

- Application window & deadline: N/A

- Processing time & approval odds: Immediate

- Cost & payment: Free

- Required documents/ID: None

- Alternate options if permit unavailable: N/A

SHUTTLE / TRANSPORTATION

- Nearest major access point: BOI, Boise

- Pre-hike basecamp: Enterprise Hotel, Enterprise, OR for acclimation and gear resupply

- Trail access type: loop

- Parking: Free at trailhead, no security

- Shuttle/local transport: Local taxi service, Enterprise Taxi, book in advance

- Recommended direction: Clockwise

- Post-hike basecamp: Enterprise Hotel, Enterprise, OR

- Backup transport: Taxi or rideshare from Enterprise

DAY 1: Eagle Cap Trailhead to Mirror Lake

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +2200 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: East Eagle Trail

- Terrain description: Steady climb through forested areas to open alpine lake views

- Notable features or side quests: Visit to Minam Lake

- Key water sources: East Eagle Creek

- Campsite location: Mirror Lake Campground

- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for bears; practice food safety

- Trail tip: Start early to enjoy cooler morning temperatures

DAY 2: Mirror Lake to Glacier Lake

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +1800 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: Lakes Basin Trail → Mirror Lake Trail

- Terrain description: Alpine meadows, rocky outcrops, stunning lake vistas

- Notable features or side quests: Summit Eagle Cap for panoramic views

- Key water sources: Mirror Lake, Glacier Creek

- Campsite location: Glacier Lake Camp

- Wildlife or safety notes: Rockfall areas on trail; stay alert

- Trail tip: Secure camp early for best lakefront sites

DAY 3: Glacier Lake to Minam Lake

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 12 miles, +1400 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: Glacier Lake Trail → Minam Lake Trail

- Terrain description: High ridges with views of surrounding peaks

- Notable features or side quests: Explore nearby streams for trout fishing

- Key water sources: Glacier Creek, Minam Lake

- Campsite location: Minam Lake Campground

- Wildlife or safety notes: Use insect repellent; high mosquito activity

- Trail tip: Consider afternoon swim in Minam Lake

DAY 4: Minam Lake to Eagle Cap Trailhead

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, -2300 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: Minam Lake Trail → return to trailhead

- Terrain description: Descend through open valleys and forest paths

- Notable features or side quests: Visit to Lostine River

- Key water sources: Minam River

- Wildlife or safety notes: Monitor weather for afternoon thunderstorms

- Trail tip: Leave early to avoid afternoon heat

CAMPSITE INTEL

- Camp names and elevation: Mirror Lake (7600 ft), Glacier Lake (7800 ft), Minam Lake (7400 ft)

- Fire restrictions: Fires prohibited above 7000 ft

- Bear safety and food storage: Bear canisters recommended

- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Glacier Lake and Eagle Cap Summit

- Noise level or solitude factor: Generally quiet, mid-week sees fewer visitors

- Nearest water source: Nearby lakes and streams

WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES

- Typical temps: 40-75°F in August

- Sun exposure: High exposure in alpine sections; use sunscreen

- Acclimatization tips: Hydrate well, avoid rapid ascent

GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)

List tailored to terrain and season

- Navigation tools (map, compass)

- Water filtration system

- Sunscreen and sunglasses

- First aid kit

- Fire starter and matches

- Pocket knife

- Headlamp with extra batteries

- Shelter system (tent, tarp)

- Insulating layers

- Nutrition/snacks (high-calorie options)

Pro tips: Use a lightweight backpacking stove; pack extra socks for creek crossings

OPTIONAL UPGRADES

- Scenic side trips: Summit Eagle Cap for extended views

- Photo-worthy moments: Sunrise at Glacier Lake

- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Dinner at Terminal Gravity Brewery, Enterprise

FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY

- Trail hours per day: 6-8 hours

- Wake/sleep rhythm: Early rise, early sleep

- Estimated calories burned per day: 2500 calories

- Water needed per person: 3 liters

- Recommended pack weight range: 25-35 lbs

Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.

Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.