Alpine Lakes Loop Hike Adventure
CATEGORY
Loop Hike
SEASON
Summer
LOCATION
Sawtooth Wilderness, ID
DATE
Aug 18, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Sawtooth Loop Adventure
Primary Objective: loop hike
Trip Duration: 6 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~46 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: alpine lakes
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): 6000 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Tin Cup Trailhead, ID
- GPS coordinates: 44.0590, -114.7961
- Permits: Obtain from Sawtooth National Forest office or online
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DAY 1: Tin Cup Trailhead, ID to Alice Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, +1200 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Tin Cup Trail
- Terrain description: Forested trail with gradual elevation
- Notable features or side quests: Scenic overlook of Pettit Lake
- Key water sources: Creek crossings along the trail
- Campsite location: Alice Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for deer near lakes
- Trail tip: Start early to secure a good campsite
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DAY 2: Alice Lake to Twin Lakes
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 4 miles, +800 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Alice Lake Trail
- Terrain description: Rocky, with panoramic lake views
- Notable features or side quests: Views of El Capitan Peak
- Key water sources: Alice Lake, nearby streams
- Campsite location: Twin Lakes
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear canisters recommended
- Trail tip: Use time here for exploration and photography
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DAY 3: Twin Lakes to Toxaway Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, +800 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Twin Lakes Trail → Toxaway Lake Trail
- Terrain description: Varied terrain with alpine vistas
- Notable features or side quests: Tranquil meadow detour
- Key water sources: Streams fed by snowmelt
- Campsite location: Toxaway Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Be mindful of sudden weather changes
- Trail tip: Carry a rain jacket
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DAY 4: Toxaway Lake to Edna Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, +1000 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Toxaway Trail → Edna Lake Trail
- Terrain description: Rugged and isolated with challenging ascents
- Notable features or side quests: High ridgeline views
- Key water sources: Lake and stream access
- Campsite location: Edna Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Keep food stored securely
- Trail tip: Monitor energy levels; this is a longer day
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DAY 5: Edna Lake to Farley Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7 miles, -700 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Edna Lake Trail → Farley Lake Trail
- Terrain description: Downhill sections with dense forest
- Notable features or side quests: Wildflower fields depending on season
- Key water sources: Multiple lake sources
- Campsite location: Farley Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Possible mosquito presence in summer
- Trail tip: Use mosquito repellent at dusk
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DAY 6: Farley Lake to Tin Cup Trailhead, ID
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, -1300 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Farley Lake Trail → Tin Cup Trail
- Terrain description: Gradual descent back to trailhead
- Notable features or side quests: Final views of Pettit Lake
- Key water sources: Small streams
- Campsite location: N/A
- Wildlife or safety notes: Stay on marked paths to protect vegetation
- Trail tip: Early start recommended to complete before midday heat
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Alice Lake (8600 ft), Twin Lakes (8400 ft), Toxaway Lake (8300 ft), Edna Lake (8500 ft), Farley Lake (8000 ft)
- Fire restrictions: Check current regulations
- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear canisters
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Toxaway Lake
- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate to high solitude
- Nearest water source: Lakes and streams at each camp
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 40-75°F in August
- Sun exposure: High; carry sunscreen
- Acclimatization tips: Hydrate frequently and rest as needed
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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: Consider a lightweight inflatable sleeping pad. Use trekking poles for stability.
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Day hike to Imogene Lake
- Photo-worthy moments: Sunrise at Alice Lake
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Dinner at Stanley Bakery and Cafe
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 5-7 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Early rise, evening camp setup
- Estimated calories burned per day: 2500-3500 calories
- Water needed per person: 3-4 liters
- Recommended pack weight range: 30-35 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.
