Sawtooth Mountains Alpine Lakes Hike

Expedition Itinerary: Sawtooth Alpine Lakes Loop

Primary Objective: loop hike

Trip Duration: 5 days

Total Estimated Mileage: ~45 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: 44.1030, -114.8567

- Permits: not required

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DAY 1: Tin Cup Trailhead to Farley Lake

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, +1000 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: Tin Cup Hiker Trail

- Terrain description: Well-maintained trail through forest with gradual ascent

- Notable features or side quests: Views of Pettit Lake

- Key water sources: Pettit Lake, Farley Lake

- Campsite location: Farley Lake

- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for black bears; practice food storage

- Trail tip: Start early to secure a spot at Farley Lake

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DAY 2: Farley Lake to Edna Lake

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, +1500 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: Trail 095

- Terrain description: Rocky terrain, gradual incline, alpine scenery

- Notable features or side quests: Detour to Imogene Lake

- Key water sources: Streams along the trail, Edna Lake

- Campsite location: Edna Lake

- Wildlife or safety notes: Marmots and deer frequent the area

- Trail tip: Stay on trails to avoid alpine meadow damage

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DAY 3: Edna Lake to Twin Lakes

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +2000 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: Trail 101 → Trail 092

- Terrain description: Challenging passes and steep inclines

- Notable features or side quests: Circuit around Virginia Lakes Basin

- Key water sources: Alpine streams, Twin Lakes

- Campsite location: Twin Lakes

- Wildlife or safety notes: Be cautious of altitude sickness

- Trail tip: Hydrate frequently and take breaks

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DAY 4: Twin Lakes to Cramer Lakes

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7 miles, +800 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: Trail 478

- Terrain description: Rolling hills with dense forest areas

- Notable features or side quests: Picturesque views of the surrounding peaks

- Key water sources: Streams and lakes en route

- Campsite location: Cramer Lakes

- Wildlife or safety notes: Mosquitoes can be prevalent

- Trail tip: Carry insect repellent

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DAY 5: Cramer Lakes to Tin Cup Trailhead

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 13 miles, +1700 ft via Snowyside Peak

- Primary trail(s) used: Trail 095 → Off-trail segment to Snowyside Peak

- Terrain description: Steep ascents, exposed ridges, and panoramic summit

- Notable features or side quests: Summit of Snowyside Peak

- Key water sources: Few sources; fill up before the peak

- Campsite location: N/A (trailhead exit)

- Wildlife or safety notes: Weather changes rapidly at high altitudes

- Trail tip: Start descent early to avoid afternoon storms

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CAMPSITE INTEL

- Camp names and elevation: Farley Lake (~8,000 ft), Edna Lake (~8,600 ft), Twin Lakes (~8,400 ft), Cramer Lakes (~7,500 ft)

- Fire restrictions: Check seasonal fire bans

- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear canisters

- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Twin Lakes

- Noise level or solitude factor: Generally quiet, especially mid-week

- Nearest water source: Lakes and streams at each campsite

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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES

- Typical temps: 40-75°F (seasonal)

- Sun exposure: High; wear sunscreen and protective clothing

- Acclimatization tips: Spend a night at higher elevation before intense ascents

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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 pack; layer clothing for fluctuating temperatures.

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OPTIONAL UPGRADES

- Scenic side trips: Imogene Lake, Virginia Lakes Basin

- Photo-worthy moments: Summit of Snowyside Peak

- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Dinner at the Redfish Lake Lodge

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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY

- Trail hours per day: 6-10 hours

- Wake/sleep rhythm: Dawn to dusk trekking

- Estimated calories burned per day: ~3500 calories

- Water needed per person: 3-5 liters

- Recommended pack weight range: 35-45 lbs

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Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.

Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.

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EI_DATA: {"title":"Sawtooth Alpine Lakes Loop", "slug":"sawtooth-alpine-lakes-loop", "start_trailhead":"Tin Cup Trailhead, ID", "end_trailhead":"Tin Cup Trailhead, ID", "location_hint":"ID", "primary_trails":["Tin Cup Hiker Trail","Trail 095","Trail 101","Trail 092","Trail 478"], "route_pois":["Farley Lake","Edna Lake","Twin Lakes","Cramer Lakes","Snowyside Peak"]}