Sawtooth Alpine Lakes Friends Loop
CATEGORY
Loop Hike
SEASON
Summer
LOCATION
Sawtooth Wilderness, ID
DATE
Aug 18, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Sawtooth Lakes Loop Adventure
Primary Objective: loop hike
Trip Duration: 5 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~48 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: alpine lakes
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): 8000 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Tin Cup Trailhead, ID
- GPS coordinates: 44.0692, -114.8350
- Permits: Not required
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DAY 1: Tin Cup Trailhead, ID to Farley Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +1800 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Tin Cup Trail
- Terrain description: Gentle ascent through dense forest and meadows
- Notable features or side quests: Scenic views of Pettit Lake
- Key water sources: Streams along the trail
- Campsite location: Farley Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for moose near water sources
- Trail tip: Start early to secure campsites
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DAY 2: Farley Lake to Edna Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +2200 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Alpine Way Trail
- Terrain description: Rocky terrain with several stream crossings
- Notable features or side quests: Views of alpine valleys
- Key water sources: Lakes and creeks nearby
- Campsite location: Edna Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear activity reported, store food securely
- Trail tip: Bring waterproof footwear for crossings
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DAY 3: Edna Lake to Twin Lakes
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +1800 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Trail 186 → South Fork Payette Trail
- Terrain description: Mix of forested areas and open ridgelines
- Notable features or side quests: Optional hike to Imogene Lake
- Key water sources: Streams along the trail
- Campsite location: Twin Lakes
- Wildlife or safety notes: Limited cell signal, plan ahead
- Trail tip: Explore around lakes for best views
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DAY 4: Twin Lakes to Virginia Lakes Basin
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +1200 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Ridge Trail → Virginia Lakes Trail
- Terrain description: High elevation plateaus with stunning lake vistas
- Notable features or side quests: Loop around Virginia Lakes Basin
- Key water sources: Virginia Lakes
- Campsite location: Near Virginia Lakes (exact not provided)
- Wildlife or safety notes: Keep an eye out for mountain goats
- Trail tip: Approach lakes quietly for wildlife viewing
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DAY 5: Virginia Lakes Basin to Summit Snowyside Peak, return to Tin Cup Trailhead
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +3000 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Off-trail segment to Snowyside Peak summit
- Terrain description: Steep and rocky scramble to peak
- Notable features or side quests: 360-degree views from peak
- Key water sources: Streams at lower elevations
- Campsite location: N/A (day hike)
- Wildlife or safety notes: Increased risk of altitude sickness, acclimate properly
- Trail tip: Plan for an early start and bring extra layers
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Farley Lake (7,670 ft), Edna Lake (8,200 ft), Twin Lakes (8,500 ft)
- Fire restrictions: Check local alerts
- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear canisters or hang food
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Twin Lakes ridgelines
- Noise level or solitude factor: Generally low, but sites fill early
- Nearest water source: Lakes at each camp
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: Highs 60-75°F, lows 30-40°F
- Sun exposure: High UV, use sunscreen
- Acclimatization tips: Spend a night at higher elevation before trip
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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: Opt for a lightweight bear canister to reduce pack weight. Consider trekking poles for stability during summit attempt.
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Detour to Imogene Lake
- Photo-worthy moments: Sunrise at Twin Lakes
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Grab a meal at Stanley, ID
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 6-8 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Rise at dawn, sleep by 9 PM
- Estimated calories burned per day: ~3500 calories
- Water needed per person: 3 liters per day
- 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.
