Spring time in Idaho means the beginning of hiking season! Do you know what hikes you want to achieve this year? There’s a lot choose from here in Idaho, but the underrated hike featured here should definitely be on your list. Not only does it boast some incredible mountain scenery, but waiting at the end is the sight of an enchanting hidden lake with bright blue water. Can you think of a more perfect hike? You’ll want to plan a trip just to complete this hiking trail after reading all about it below.
Most Idahoans are familiar with the immense and stunning Sawtooth Wilderness. It's one of Idaho's most treasured wilderness areas. However, you really haven't experienced them until you've completed the hike to the beautiful Sawtooth Lake.
Sawtooth lake is a must-see, and the five mile hike to get to it makes for the perfect day trip. Backpackers will be delighted to know that there is plenty to do and see in the area to take up an entire weekend.
To get to the trailhead, you'll have to travel to the small mountain town of Stanley. You'll take Forest Road 619 which is about a mile outside of town. After about two miles you will reach the Iron Creek Trailhead area. This is where you'll want to fill out a quick Sawtooth Wilderness permit (it doesn't cost anything) and then you'll be ready to take on the trail!
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The trail is rated as moderate, so it's definitely achievable even if you don't consider yourself a hiking expert. The trail is pretty flat and easygoing for the most part.
You'll instantly be in awe of the trail's beautiful surroundings. After about a mile you'll come across the stunning scene of Iron Creek flowing straight through a luscious meadow. You can't help but be in total awe, but that's not even the best part of the hike.
After the meadow, you'll come across the most difficult part of the trail. There are a few steep switchbacks that will require some effort, but you'll soon find that the destination is totally worth it.
Eventually you'll come across the view you've been waiting for. The glorious Sawtooth Lake is hard to miss. The water is a vibrant blue and it almost feels like a little paradise hiding in between the mountains.
From certain angles the lake's water resembles a mirror as it reflects the majestic Mt. Regan on its surface.
You'll most likely find patches of snow throughout the area. Be sure to bring warm clothing because the region remains a cool temperature even during the warmer months.
The view of the lake makes the 2-3 hour hike totally worth it. Once at the lake, you can set up camp for a few days if you wish. Try your luck at fishing in the lake, where the water is so clear you can see the fish!
This is a popular trail for hiking enthusiasts, but the remoteness of the area ensures that you'll probably have the place to yourself. This is the perfect place to escape reality for a little bit and bask in your own private corner of Idaho.
If you do decide to camp, be aware that the nights get cold. Come prepared for anything you might need. As always, leave our wilderness areas looking how they did when you found them.
The Iron Creek trail to Sawtooth Lake is a must for any nature-loving Idahoan. It's places like this one that remind us why living in Idaho is so great.
