Sawtooth Wilderness Alpine Lakes Expedition
CATEGORY
Loop Hike
SEASON
Summer
LOCATION
Sawtooth Wilderness, ID
DATE
Aug 18, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Sawtooth Alpine Loop
Primary Objective: loop hike
Trip Duration: 5 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~47 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: alpine lakes
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): 7500 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Tin Cup Trailhead, ID
- GPS coordinates: 44.0636, -114.8390
- Permits: Contact Sawtooth National Recreation Area for permit requirements
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DAY 1: Tin Cup Trailhead to Alice Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, +1600 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Alice Lake Trail
- Terrain description: Pine forests leading to alpine meadows
- Notable features or side quests: Scenic views of El Capitan
- Key water sources: Creek crossings along the trail
- Campsite location: Alice Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for loose rock near the lake
- Trail tip: Start early to secure a good campsite
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DAY 2: Alice Lake to Toxaway Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +1500 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Alpine Way Trail
- Terrain description: Rocky ascents with panoramic vistas
- Notable features or side quests: Saddleback lakes diversion
- Key water sources: Streams and lakes en route
- Campsite location: Toxaway Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear country; use proper food storage
- Trail tip: Consider a side trip to Saddleback Lakes
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DAY 3: Toxaway Lake to Edna Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, +1800 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: South Fork Trail
- Terrain description: Dense forest transitioning to open ridges
- Notable features or side quests: Waterfall views
- Key water sources: Streams near Edna Lake
- Campsite location: Edna Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Mountain goat sightings possible
- Trail tip: Monitor weather for afternoon thunderstorms
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DAY 4: Edna Lake to Ardeth Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +1800 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Baron Creek Trail
- Terrain description: Alpine terrain with rocky paths
- Notable features or side quests: Glacier-carved basins
- Key water sources: Frequent water access
- Campsite location: Ardeth Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: High altitude; stay hydrated
- Trail tip: Look for the best swimming spots
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DAY 5: Ardeth Lake to Tin Cup Trailhead
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 14 miles, +1800 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Redfish Lake Trail
- Terrain description: Descending through varied landscapes
- Notable features or side quests: View of Redfish Lake
- Key water sources: Creeks along the way
- Campsite location: N/A
- Wildlife or safety notes: Final descent can be tiring
- Trail tip: Pace yourself for the long hike back
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Alice Lake (8600 ft), Toxaway Lake (8400 ft), Edna Lake (8700 ft), Ardeth Lake (8200 ft)
- Fire restrictions: Check local fire bans
- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear canisters
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Alice Lake, Edna Lake
- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate; popular route
- Nearest water source: Nearby lakes and streams
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 40-70°F
- Sun exposure: High; bring adequate sun protection
- Acclimatization tips: Stay hydrated and ascend gradually
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GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)
List tailored to terrain and season
Include 1–2 pro tips:
- 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 hydration pack; consider solar charger
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Summit Observation Peak
- Photo-worthy moments: Sunset at Alice Lake
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Meal at Stanley Baking Company
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 6-10 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Wake at dawn, sleep by dusk
- Estimated calories burned per day: 3000-4000 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.
Missions: Field Debriefs
Every mission here has been completed, but the terrain still speaks. Proceed with respect.
