Did you know there are at least 114 named mountain ranges in Idaho? And those are just the ones that have names. Living in a mountainous state like ours means that there’s always an adventure to be had. It also means that there will undoubtedly be some underrated mountain ranges that manage to slip under our radar. Whereas ranges such as the Sawtooths or the Tetons get plenty of attention, we encourage you to take a look at an incredible range of mountains that often goes unnoticed – the brilliant White Clouds.
Don't get us wrong, we love our Sawtooth Mountains. But right across the Sawtooth Valley is another mountain range worth feasting your eyes on: the White Cloud Mountains.
Located in central Idaho, the White Clouds are part of the Rocky Mountains and reside within both the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and the White Clouds Wilderness. They may not have the same name recognition as their next-door neighbor, but they are just as stunning.
Consisting of mostly National Forest land, exploring the White Clouds means venturing into true Idaho wilderness. The mountain range is home to many hiking trails and camping is permitted basically everywhere with no fees.
True to their name, the White Clouds evoke grandness with their impressive size that seems to reach up and touch the sky. At 25-miles long, the range boasts dozens of peaks that are well over 10,000-feet high, with the tallest peak - Castle Peak - clocking in at 11,814-feet high.
Like many of Idaho's mountain ranges, the White Clouds are home to hundreds of beautiful alpine lakes that are tucked between their ridges. Fourth of July Lake is especially spectacular, accessible via Sawtooth National Forest trail 109.
Although day hikes are certainly possible within the White Clouds, they are really best experienced as a backpacking destination. The White Clouds Peaks Loop is an epic, 28-mile adventure that could take experienced hikers several days to complete - and every little bit of it is downright stunning.
There's always an incredible adventure to be had exploring this underrated mountain range in Idaho. The next time you find yourself in the Sawtooth Valley, consider turning towards the White Clouds where endless beauty awaits!
Have you ventured into Idaho’s White Clouds before? If you feel so inclined, please share your favorite mountain adventures with us in the comments below!
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