Alpine Lakes Loop in Sawtooth
CATEGORY
Loop Hike
SEASON
Fall
LOCATION
Sawtooth Wilderness, ID
DATE
Sep 13, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Sawtooth Alpine Lakes Loop
Primary Objective: Loop hike
Trip Duration: 6 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~42 miles
Experience Level: Advanced
Terrain Type: Alpine lakes and rugged mountains
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): 3500 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Tin Cup Trailhead, ID
- GPS coordinates: 44.0865, -114.8262
- Permits: Not required
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DAY 1: Tin Cup Trailhead to Alice Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, +1300 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Tin Cup Trail
- Terrain description: Forested trail ascending to a scenic alpine lake
- Notable features or side quests: Stunning views of El Capitan above Alice Lake
- Key water sources: Streams along the trail
- Campsite location: Alice Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear country—use food storage
- 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: 6.2 miles, +800 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Alice-Toxaway Loop
- Terrain description: High alpine meadows and ridges
- Notable features or side quests: Snowyside Peak views
- Key water sources: Lakes and streams
- Campsite location: Twin Lakes
- Wildlife or safety notes: Mosquitoes may be present
- Trail tip: Use sunscreen, minimal shade on ridgelines
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DAY 3: Twin Lakes to Edna Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 5.9 miles, +500 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Alice-Toxaway Loop
- Terrain description: Rocky trails with alpine lake views
- Notable features or side quests: Optional scramble to Snowyside Peak
- Key water sources: Numerous lakes along the route
- Campsite location: Edna Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for loose rocks on trails
- Trail tip: Filter water at lakes to stay hydrated
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DAY 4: Edna Lake to Imogene Lake (Day Hike)
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +700 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Edna Lake Connector → Imogene Lake Trail
- Terrain description: Cross alpine passes to reach a secluded lake
- Notable features or side quests: Incredible panoramic views
- Key water sources: Streams and Imogene Lake
- Campsite location: Return to Edna Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Be cautious of afternoon thunderstorms
- Trail tip: Carry a daypack for this hike
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DAY 5: Edna Lake to Toxaway Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 5.7 miles, +400 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Alice-Toxaway Loop
- Terrain description: Diverse landscapes with forest and rocky patches
- Notable features or side quests: Beautiful sunrise reflections
- Key water sources: Lakes and small creeks
- Campsite location: Toxaway Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Use insect repellent, bugs can be persistent
- Trail tip: Camp on rocks to avoid wet ground
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DAY 6: Toxaway Lake to Tin Cup Trailhead
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, -3700 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Alice-Toxaway Loop
- Terrain description: Long descent through varied terrains
- Notable features or side quests: Stunning views on the descent
- Key water sources: Streams
- Campsite location: N/A, exit trip
- Wildlife or safety notes: Keep an eye on trail junctions
- Trail tip: Take breaks to enjoy the descent and scenery
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Alice Lake (8600 ft), Twin Lakes (8560 ft), Edna Lake (8500 ft), Toxaway Lake (8400 ft)
- Fire restrictions: Check local regulations
- Bear safety and food storage: Utilize bear canisters
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Edna Lake and Toxaway Lake
- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate; popular route
- Nearest water source: Lakes adjacent to campsites
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 35°F to 65°F in September
- Sun exposure: High, especially near lakes and ridgelines
- Acclimatization tips: Take it easy on the first ascent if not acclimatized
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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: Lightweight, breathable clothing is crucial. Consider a portable solar charger for extended trips.
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Detour to Snowyside Peak for extra challenge
- Photo-worthy moments: Sunrise at Edna Lake
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Visit Stanley for local cuisine
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 5-8 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Dawn rise, dusk rest
- 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.
