Overlooking the Sawtooths

 

The Alice-Toxaway Lake Loop is a spectacular trail highlighting multiple high alpine lakes (and not just the namesake lakes of the trail name) in the Sawtooth Mountains, Idaho.

Spanning approximately 21 miles, this loop traverses a stunning array of alpine scenery, including crystal-clear lakes, lush meadows, and rugged peaks. It’s ideal for those seeking a challenging yet rewarding trek through one of Idaho’s most picturesque landscapes.

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your adventure on this spectacular trail.

 

Trailhead and Access

The journey begins at the Tin Cup Trailhead, located about 45 miles North of Sun Valley, Idaho. To reach the trailhead, follow Highway 75 N about 42 miles from Sun Valley, then turn onto Forest Road 079. The forest road is well-maintained and gravel but can be rough in places, so take it slow.

 

There is a parking area at the trailhead just beyond the campground with a dumpster, outhouse, and a fair amount of parking. However, it frequently can be full due to the popularity of this trail in the summer. Permits are required but are free to obtain once you enter the wilderness, about 1/2 mile into the trek.
Tin Cup Trailhead

 

3-Day Suggested Itinerary

Below is the route my friends and I took. This is only a suggestion as there are many great campsites as well as alternate side trails that can be taken to extend your trip. The loop would also work great in the opposite direction of this.

 

 

Day 1: Tin Cup Trailhead to Alice Lake

  • Distance: 7 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 1700 feet
  • Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Begin your hike from the Tin Cup Trailhead and follow the trail as it gradually ascends through a forest of pine and fir. The first few miles are relatively moderate, at first showcasing Petit Lake but then branching into small meadows amidst the forest.

 

After a few miles in, you come to a nondescript fork in the trail where the left fork goes across the creek and the right fork stays on the current side. I highly recommend rock hopping across the creek as that trail is much better maintained and the right fork is . . . well, not.

 

We did not read the recent reviews and thus missed the fork staying to the right. I lost count of how many large trees we went over and under. Without the AllTrails app, we likely would have lost the trail in many places.
A woman hiking with a backpack on a trail, enjoying the serene landscape and fresh air of the outdoors.
A picturesque stream meanders through a dense forest, flanked by trees and rocks, embodying the beauty of nature.

 

After the two trails converge again, the trail becomes steeper and rockier. The trail switchbacks up one side of the valley before crossing the creek and mellowing out again.

 

After a few more climbs, all your effort is well rewarded as you reach the predecessor “pond” for Alice Lake, which offers stunning reflections of “El Cap” and a glimpse at the fabulous cirque of peaks still to come.

 

Rounding the small hill above the pond, you’ll see Alice Lake itself – a stunning alpine lake nestled beneath a cirque of towering peaks. The lake’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip, and the surrounding meadows provide excellent camping spots. Set up camp and take some time to enjoy the serene beauty of this lake.
El Cap
Tranquil lake scene featuring scattered logs and towering mountains in the distance, reflecting nature's beauty.

 

Day 2: Alice Lake to Farley Lake

  • Distance: 8-9 miles
  • Elevation Change: 1,053 feet up, 1765 feet down
  • Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
From Alice Lake, the trail continues north and ascends to a pass, offering panoramic views of the Sawtooth Wilderness. The climb to the pass is challenging, but the vistas are awe-inspiring and make the time go by fairly quickly.  We enjoyed searching for pika amongst the rock piles and admiring the last of summer’s wildflowers trying their best to sprout in seemingly random patches on the mountain side.
A person walks leisurely on a lakeside trail, immersed in the beauty of the landscape and the soothing waters nearby.
A large, tranquil body of water stretching to the horizon, with gentle ripples and a clear blue sky above.
Several individuals navigate a rocky hiking trail, showcasing teamwork and determination amidst a natural landscape.

 

From the pass, descend into the Toxaway Lake Basin, where the first lake to greet you doesn’t have a name but was one of my favorites for its milky blue color. After that, you’ll quickly reach one end of Toxaway Lake which will be your companion for what feels like forever.

Just after passing the junction with Redfish Lake trail on the left, small footpaths will start appearing on the right. These lead down to nice campsites along Toxaway that aren’t visible from the main trail. Sadly, you’ll have to descend to see what camp sites are available or are large enough to fit your group.

 

A picturesque mountain trail surrounded by towering peaks and vibrant foliage, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
A serene view of a mountain in the distance, highlighting its towering presence and the tranquility of the surrounding landscape.

 

Toxaway Lake itself is quite a bit larger than Alice Lake and surrounded by impressive granite cliffs with steeper terrain and denser forest. Here you will find a lot more solitude than at Alice Lake.

 

A calm lake nestled among verdant trees and impressive mountains, illustrating a harmonious blend of water and wilderness.

 

However, my companions and I weren’t ready to call it a day here yet and found Toxaway to be a bit windy for our liking, so we headed, on hoping to find more camping options down the trail. We passed a few with one of the most appealing being a spot right on an un-named lake just past Bowknot.

 

After that, options got slimmer until reaching Farley Lake, which was unfortunately already pretty full. I definitely recommend getting an earlier start to this day so your options are more available. We settled on a hilltop spot that was VERY windy and a bit of a trek down to the water, but after a long day… we were grateful to get our camp setup, go for a swim, and relax for the evening.
A woman stands in a tranquil lake, with stunning mountains rising in the background, creating a picturesque scene.
A breathtaking panorama of mountains and a calm lake, seen from a rocky area, emphasizing the majesty of the outdoors.
A woman seated comfortably in a chair, surrounded by the cozy interior of a tent.
A tent stands on the ground, providing shelter in a serene outdoor setting, ideal for camping and relaxation.

 

Day 3: Farley Lake to Tin Cup Trailhead

  • Distance: 5.5 miles
  • Elevation Change: 1,250 feet down, 500 feet up (right at the end)
  • Difficulty: Moderate
On the final leg of your journey, follow the trail as it descends back to the Tin Cup Trailhead. The descent is relatively straightforward, and we found it to be quite a bit easier than the steep descent from the pass the day earlier.

 

Enjoy the changing views as you pass through dense forests and open meadows following Toxaway Creek for part of the descent, which provides pleasant, gurgling sounds and a small scenic waterfalls.

 

Once you’re on a flat trail thinking surely you’re just about back to the start, you’ll hit the final climb. A small mountain separates the trailhead from the lake drainage you’re still in. Alas, you have to climb it. After the climb, it’s a very steep and quick descent right back down to the trailhead.

 

Tips for a Successful Backpacking Trip

  1. Permits and Regulations: Permits are free but required. The permit stations are located about 1/2 -1 mile into either side of the loop. Familiarize yourself beforehand with local regulations for the time of your trip as they can change. For example, dogs must be on leash in the summer months and fire restrictions are also frequently in place.

  2. Weather Preparedness: The weather in the Sawtooth Mountains can be unpredictable. Be prepared for a range of conditions, including sudden thunderstorms and temperature fluctuations.

  3. Wildlife and Food Safety: Be vigilant about wildlife encounters. Proper food storage is REQUIRED. Bear-proof containers work best. However, if you choose to hang your food, select a tree at least 200 feet away from your tent that has a branch about 15 feet off the ground. Ideally, the bear bag should hang 10 feet away from the trunk and 15 feet above the ground. Apart from bears, the squirrels are also relentless in the area and WILL chew holes in your gear to get at your food.

  4. Hydration and Water: Water sources are plentiful, but always purify or filter water before drinking to avoid waterborne illnesses.
  5. Navigation: Although the trail is generally well-marked, carry a map and compass or a GPS device for navigation. Trail conditions can change, and having navigation tools will help ensure you stay on track. (We had a Garmin In-Reach as well as downloaded Alltrails on my phone for our trip)

  6. Leave no trace: Pack out all your garbage. Wag bags for your personal waste are HIGHLY recommended. There are very few areas to dig holes up in this high alpine terrain and more people than can really be supported with cat holes. Pack a wag bag or 2. We never really found any good spots especially near the camp sites when nature called, so we used our wag bags.

 

The Alice-Toxaway Lake Loop is a rewarding hike that showcases the natural splendor of the Sawtooth Mountains. With its stunning lakes, panoramic views, and diverse terrain, it’s a must-do for any avid backpacker or outdoor enthusiast. Enjoy your adventure!

 

Colorful wildflowers bloom in the mountains, with towering peaks rising majestically in the background, creating a serene landscape.

 

Thinking about doing the Alice-Toxaway Loop? What questions do you have? Post them below.

 

Amanda Lillie

Utah County (UT) Ambassador