Alpine Lakes Loop Hike Adventure

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.