Top 17 Lakes in Sawtooth Wilderness
Best lakes in Sawtooth Wilderness are found within a region known for its more than 300 alpine lakes, many of which were formed by ancient glaciers. This area offers diverse outdoor experiences, with lakes ranging from easily accessible to those requiring multi-day treks. The landscape features chiseled U-shaped granite valleys and views of prominent peaks. Access to many lakes requires a wilderness permit.
Best lakes in Sawtooth Wilderness
- The most popular lakes is Sawtooth Lake, a lake at the base of Mount Regan. Due to its elevation, it can remain frozen into early summer.
- Another must-see spot is Alpine Lake, a lake located on the trail to Sawtooth Lake. This lake is a convenient stop for hikers on their way to the larger Sawtooth Lake.
- Visitors also love Hell Roaring Lake, a lake with the Finger of Fate towering above its water. This location offers opportunities to extend hikes to other scenic lakes, such as Imogene Lake.
- Sawtooth Wilderness is known for its alpine and glacial lakes. These bodies of water offer a variety of experiences, from popular day-hike destinations to more remote, challenging options.
- The lakes in Sawtooth Wilderness are appreciated by the komoot community. With more than 2 upvotes and 7 photos, the community shares their experiences of these natural features.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Alpine Lake
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Junction Observation Peak/ Trail Creek Lakes
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The Trail Creek Trail however leads you either to Grandjean Trailhead or Observation Peak, Stanley Lake or Sawtooth Lakes in the other direction.
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Sawtooth Lake
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Upper Trail Creek Lake (South)
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Hell Roaring Lake
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Tips from the Community
… if you want to include Sawtooth Lake on this hike, you can spare Alpine Lake …
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… if you want to see Sawtooth Lake: save energy, don’t hike down to the lake
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Upper Trail Creek Lake (South) sits above Lower Trail Creek Lake and offers a stunning view of the lower lake. To get up here, some route finding is necessary since the trail has suffered from the wildfire. There is fish in the lake and you will find some great spots for camping at the south end of the lake which is also a source for Trail Creek.
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At this junction you can follow Trail Creek Lakes Trail which leads to the beautiful alpine Trail Lakes. There are three different lakes with great camp spots, but be aware that this is an old burn zone. So there is not too much shade neither along the trail nor at the lakes. The Trail Creek Trail however leads you either to Grandjean Trailhead or Observation Peak, Stanley Lake or Sawtooth Lakes in the other direction.
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Although its name might give you another impression, Hell Roaring Lake is a true alpine idyll with the Finger of Fate towering above the quiet water. If you want to extend your hike, there are numerous scenic lakes to the south with Imogene Lake being the largest and the closest.
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This is one of two lakes within the Sawtooth Wilderness known as Alpine Lake with the other one located further south. Popular Sawtooth Lake is just half a mile from here. To hike into the wilderness, you need to obtain a wilderness permit which is available at the trailhead.
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Sawtooth Lake at the base of Mount Regan is one of the biggest and most popular lakes within the Sawtooth Wilderness. Due to its elevation, it is often frozen into early summer. The easiest way to get here is to start at the Iron Creek trailhead, passing Alpine Lake on your way. You need to obtain a wilderness permit which is available at the trailhead.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular lakes for hiking in the Sawtooth Wilderness?
Many lakes in the Sawtooth Wilderness are popular for hiking. Sawtooth Lake is a highly frequented destination, often reached via a moderate 5-mile hike from the Iron Creek trailhead. Another favorite is Alice Lake, known for its spectacular mountainous backdrop and a moderate 5.5-mile hike from Pettit Lake. The Bench Lakes also offer increasingly spectacular views as you hike further in.
Are there any multi-day backpacking loops involving lakes in the Sawtooth Wilderness?
Yes, the Sawtooth Wilderness is renowned for its multi-day backpacking loops. The Alice-Toxaway Loop is a popular choice, often including lakes like Cramer Lakes, Imogene Lake, and Toxaway Lake, which are known for their incredible views and stellar campsites.
Which lakes are good starting points for exploring the Sawtooth Wilderness?
Pettit Lake serves as an excellent access point to the wilderness, being a popular starting point for hikes to Alice Lake, Twin Lakes, Edith Lake, and Farley Lake. Redfish Lake is another major hub, offering boat shuttles that can shorten approaches to various trails and providing amenities like lodging and camping.
What kind of terrain and difficulty can I expect on lake trails in the Sawtooth Wilderness?
The terrain around the lakes varies from well-maintained trails to more rugged and challenging paths, especially when venturing to higher or more remote lakes. For example, the trail to the second Bench Lake is well-maintained, but reaching the fifth lake offers a more challenging experience. Some areas, like the path to Upper Trail Creek Lake (South), may require route finding due to past wildfires.
What are the permit requirements for visiting lakes in the Sawtooth Wilderness?
Many of the lakes within the Sawtooth Wilderness require a wilderness permit. These permits can often be obtained at trailheads, such as the Iron Creek trailhead for Sawtooth Lake and Alpine Lake.
When is the best time to visit the lakes in the Sawtooth Wilderness?
The best time to visit the lakes in the Sawtooth Wilderness is generally from late spring to early fall. However, it's important to note that higher elevation lakes, such as Sawtooth Lake, can remain frozen into early summer due to their elevation.
Are there any lakes suitable for swimming or cliff jumping?
Alice Lake is known to be warm enough for swimming and even has spots for cliff jumping, making it a popular choice for those looking to cool off during their hike.
Which lakes offer a more secluded experience with fewer crowds?
For those seeking solitude, the Upper and Lower Baron Lakes offer some of the most spectacular views in the entire Sawtooth Wilderness from Baron Divide, often with fewer crowds due to their more remote location. Goat Lake also provides an excellent out-and-back option for an overnight trip, offering solitude and beautiful views.
What natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes are set amidst breathtaking scenery, often within chiseled U-shaped granite valleys, showcasing significant glacial evidence. You can expect stunning views of prominent peaks like Mount Regan (near Sawtooth Lake) and Mt. Heyburn (near Bench Lakes). Some areas, like Goat Lake, also feature waterfalls.
Are there lakes with amenities or services nearby?
Redfish Lake, located just south of Stanley, is a major hub offering shoreside food options, lodging, and camping. Alturas Lake, also south of Stanley, provides beautiful views and camping options, typically with fewer visitors than Redfish Lake.
What are some recommended hiking routes near the lakes?
There are numerous hiking routes available. Popular options include the Bench Lakes Trail, the challenging Imogene Lake to Toxaway Lake to Alice Lake Loop, and the Redfish Lake to Alpine Lake route. For more details on these and other trails, you can explore the Hiking in Sawtooth Wilderness guide.
Are there any lakes that are particularly easy to access for beginners or families?
While many trails involve some elevation gain, lakes like Titus Lake offer a shorter hike to a stunning turquoise alpine lake. Redfish Lake and Pettit Lake are also easily accessible and serve as excellent starting points for various excursions, some of which can be tailored for easier experiences.
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Still not found your perfect lake in Sawtooth Wilderness? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
