Alpine Lakes Loop in Sawtooth

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.