There's A Crystal-Clear Alpine Lake In Idaho But Hardly Anyone Knows It Exists
By Courtnie Erickson|Published June 22, 2023
×
Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Idaho offers all types of destinations where you can get away and find a little quiet. One of these destinations is Alpine Lake, a beautiful tucked-away lake in the Sawtooth Mountains. Not only is there a hike required to reach the lake but it’s lesser known and you are more likely to enjoy a little time to yourself. It’s a great trail to lace up your hiking boots, have a camera ready, and just enjoy some time outside.
There are multiple hiking trails in the Sawtooth Mountains that we recommend. All of these trails are beautiful and worth every effort. The Alpine Lake Trail is one of them.
This trail begins at Inlet Campground at Redfish Lake and you will need to take a boat ride to reach this trailhead. You will also need to acquire a free wilderness permit for this trail, which is available at the trailhead.
The Alpine Lake Trail isn’t a short trail — approximately 7.5 miles out and back — but it is certainly beautiful.
This trail is a bit challenging in some areas and you’ll want to be prepared for some hard climbs. You will gain approximately 1,200 feet in elevation.
