Alpine Lakes Loop Adventure
CATEGORY
Loop Hike
SEASON
Summer
LOCATION
Sawtooth Wilderness, ID
DATE
Aug 18, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Sawtooth Wilderness Loop Trek
Primary Objective: loop hike
Trip Duration: 5 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~45 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: alpine lakes and rugged mountains
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): 10,500 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Tin Cup Trailhead, ID
- GPS coordinates: 44.0844, -114.8258
- Permits: Not required
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DAY 1: Tin Cup Trailhead to Farley Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, +1,200 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Pettit Lake Trail → Farley Lake Trail
- Terrain description: Forested areas transitioning to open alpine meadows
- Notable features or side quests: Explore creek views and meadows
- Key water sources: Pettit Creek, Farley Lake
- Campsite location: Farley Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear activity; use bear canisters
- Trail tip: Start early to secure a good campsite
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DAY 2: Farley Lake to Edna Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +2,200 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Farley Lake Trail → Alpine Way Trail
- Terrain description: Rocky trails with stunning lake views
- Notable features or side quests: View of alpine lakes along the route
- Key water sources: Trailside streams, Edna Lake
- Campsite location: Edna Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Rocky terrain; watch for loose stones
- Trail tip: Filter water at every stream
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DAY 3: Edna Lake to Twin Lakes
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +1,800 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Alpine Way Trail → Twin Lakes Trail
- Terrain description: Varied terrain with lake crossings
- Notable features or side quests: Scenic views of Baron Divide
- Key water sources: Streams, Twin Lakes
- Campsite location: Twin Lakes
- Wildlife or safety notes: Be cautious of afternoon thunderstorms
- Trail tip: Secure tents against wind gusts
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DAY 4: Twin Lakes to Imogene Lake (via Virginia Lakes Basin)
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, +2,000 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Twin Lakes Trail → Off-trail segment → Imogene Lake Trail
- Terrain description: Cross-country segments with challenging navigation
- Notable features or side quests: Virginia Lakes Basin exploration
- Key water sources: Virginia Lakes; Imogene Lake
- Campsite location: Imogene Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Stay aware of the weather; carry a map and compass
- Trail tip: Mark waypoints at key points in the Virginia Lakes Basin
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DAY 5: Imogene Lake to Snowyside Peak to Tin Cup Trailhead
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 12 miles, +3,300 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Imogene Lake Trail → Snowyside Peak Summit Route → Tin Cup Trail
- Terrain description: Steep ascent to Snowyside Peak with panoramic views
- Notable features or side quests: Snowyside Peak summit
- Key water sources: Limited; carry sufficient water from Imogene Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Keep track of time; start descent early
- Trail tip: Use trekking poles for stability during descents
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Farley Lake (~7,000 ft), Edna Lake (~8,600 ft), Twin Lakes (~8,100 ft), Imogene Lake (~8,300 ft)
- Fire restrictions: Check local regulations
- Bear safety and food storage: Bear canisters required
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Snowyside Peak, Twin Lakes
- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate; popular destination
- Nearest water source: Near all campsite locations
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 40°F to 75°F in August
- Sun exposure: High UV levels, especially on rocky ridges
- Acclimatization tips: Allow time to adjust to altitude, especially above 8,000 ft
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GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)
- 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: Consider an ultralight tent and pack extra batteries for headlamp
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Virginia Lakes Basin exploration
- Photo-worthy moments: Sunrise at Snowyside Peak
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Enjoy a meal in Stanley, ID
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 6-8 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Awake at sunrise, sleep by 10 PM
- Estimated calories burned per day: ~3,000 calories
- Water needed per person: ~3-4 liters
- Recommended pack weight range: 35-40 lbs
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Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.
Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.
Missions: Field Debriefs
Every mission here has been completed, but the terrain still speaks. Proceed with respect.
