Alpine Lakes Loop Solo Adventure

Expedition Itinerary: Alice-Toxaway Loop Adventure

Primary Objective: loop hike

Trip Duration: 3 days

Total Estimated Mileage: ~19 miles

Experience Level: advanced

Terrain Type: alpine lakes

• Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): +3300 ft

• Start and end trailhead: Tin Cup Trailhead, ID

• GPS coordinates: 44.1024, -114.8358

• Permits: Required. Obtain from Sawtooth National Forest online or in-person.

⸻

DAY 1: Tin Cup Trailhead to Alice Lake

• Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, +1200 ft

• Primary trail(s) used: Trail 95 → Trail 101

• Terrain description: Mixed forest with streams and alpine meadows

• Notable features or side quests: Alice Lake views

• Key water sources: Pettit Lake Creek

• Campsite location: Alice Lake Camp

• Wildlife or safety notes: Bear country precautions advised

• Trail tip: Start early for better campsite selection

⸻

DAY 2: Alice Lake to Toxaway Lake

• Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7 miles, +1500 ft

• Primary trail(s) used: Trail 101

• Terrain description: Rocky sections near alpine lakes

• Notable features or side quests: Superb views of El Capitan

• Key water sources: Streams along the trail

• Campsite location: Toxaway Lake Camp

• Wildlife or safety notes: Secure food storage

• Trail tip: Take breaks at lakes for photography

⸻

DAY 3: Toxaway Lake to Tin Cup Trailhead

• Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, -1600 ft

• Primary trail(s) used: Trail 95

• Terrain description: Descent through forested paths

• Notable features or side quests: Far-reaching valley views

• Key water sources: Several streams near trail

• Campsite location: Not applicable

• Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for changing weather

• Trail tip: Keep a steady pace on the descent

⸻

CAMPSITE INTEL

• Camp names and elevation: Alice Lake (8600 ft), Toxaway Lake (8400 ft)

• Fire restrictions: Check for seasonal bans

• Bear safety and food storage: Use bear canisters

• Best views (sunrise/sunset): Alice Lake, Toxaway Lake

• Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate solitude

• Nearest water source: Lakes and streams adjacent

⸻

WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES

• Typical temps: 40°F–75°F (August)

• Sun exposure: Limited shade, wear sun protection

• Acclimatization tips: Plan for day 1 energy conservation

⸻

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: Carry extra batteries and a backup map app

⸻

OPTIONAL UPGRADES

• Scenic side trips: Inlet to Twin Lakes

• Photo-worthy moments: Morning reflections on Alice Lake

• Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Burger at local Stanley diner

⸻

FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY

• Trail hours per day: 5-7 hours

• Wake/sleep rhythm: Early start; dusk camp setup

• Estimated calories burned per day: ~3000 calories

• Water needed per person: 3-4 liters

• Recommended pack weight range: 25-30 lbs

⸻

Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.

Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.

⸻