Sawtooth Wilderness Alpine Lakes Expedition

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.