Porcupine Mountains Loop Hike Adventure
CATEGORY
Loop Hike
SEASON
Fall
LOCATION
Porcupine Mountains, MI
DATE
Oct 4, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Sawtooth Alpine Loop
Primary Objective: Loop Hike
Trip Duration: 6 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~65 miles
Experience Level: Advanced
Terrain Type: Alpine Lakes and Rocky Terrain
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): 13,500 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Redfish Lake Trailhead, Idaho
- GPS coordinates: 44.1183, -114.9172
- Permits: Not required
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DAY 1: Redfish Lake Trailhead to Alpine Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +2,500 ft
- Terrain description: Forested trails leading to open alpine areas
- Notable features or side quests: Alpine Lake vistas
- Key water sources: Streams along trail
- Campsite location: Alpine Lake Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear awareness in the area
- Trail tip: Start early to secure a good campsite
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DAY 2: Alpine Lake to Cramer Lakes
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 12 miles, +3,200 ft
- Terrain description: Rocky paths with stunning lake views
- Notable features or side quests: Visit to Cramer Lakes
- Key water sources: Numerous lakes and streams
- Campsite location: Cramer Lakes Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Mosquitoes can be prevalent
- Trail tip: Pack insect repellent
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DAY 3: Cramer Lakes to Imogene Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, +1,500 ft
- Terrain description: High passes and lush meadows
- Notable features or side quests: Imogene Lake beauty
- Key water sources: Alpine streams
- Campsite location: Imogene Lake Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for afternoon storms
- Trail tip: Set up camp before afternoon thunderstorms
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DAY 4: Imogene Lake to Baron Lakes
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 11 miles, +2,800 ft
- Terrain description: Steep climbs and descents, panoramic views
- Notable features or side quests: Side trip to Baron Divide
- Key water sources: Lakes and creeks
- Campsite location: Baron Lakes Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Ensure food is stored properly
- Trail tip: Utilize bear canisters for food
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DAY 5: Baron Lakes to Toxaway Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 13 miles, +2,700 ft
- Terrain description: Diverse landscapes with alpine beauty
- Notable features or side quests: Relax at Toxaway Lake
- Key water sources: Good water availability at lakes
- Campsite location: Toxaway Lake Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Be cautious of uneven paths
- Trail tip: Trekking poles will assist in rough terrain
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DAY 6: Toxaway Lake to Redfish Lake Trailhead
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +800 ft
- Terrain description: Gradual descent through forested areas
- Notable features or side quests: Soak in views of Twin Lakes
- Key water sources: Last few streams before trailhead
- Campsite location: Depart for home
- Wildlife or safety notes: Final chance for wildlife spotting
- Trail tip: Double-check gear and belongings before departure
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Alpine Lake (8,300 ft), Cramer Lakes (8,500 ft), Imogene Lake (8,900 ft), Baron Lakes (9,000 ft), Toxaway Lake (8,200 ft)
- Fire restrictions: Check local guidelines
- Bear safety and food storage: Always use bear canisters
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Imogene Lake, Baron Divide
- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate noise, popular areas
- Nearest water source: Each campsite is by a lake
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 40°F to 75°F in August
- Sun exposure: High, bring protection
- Acclimatization tips: Spend a rest day at high elevation if 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: Use lightweight layers to adjust for temperature changes.
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Visit Castle Peak in the White Clouds
- Photo-worthy moments: Sunrise at Baron Divide
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Stanley Baking Company for breakfast
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 6-8 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Early rise, sunset rest
- Estimated calories burned per day: 3,500 calories
- Water needed per person: 3-4 liters
- Recommended pack weight range: 35-45 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.
