Sawtooth Alpine Basins
Sawtooth Alpine Basins are a series of high-mountain lakes and passes in central Idaho, nestled between the Sawtooth and White Clouds ranges. Accessed via backcountry trails, they offer glacial-clear lakes, rugged ridges, and routes suitable for multi-day backpacking and peak bagging.
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Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Western United States |
| Subregion | Northern Rockies |
| Country | United States |
| State | Idaho |
| County | Blaine County |
| Timezone | AmericaDenver |
| Latitude | 44.233 |
| Longitude | -114.85 |
| Maps |
12:54 PM LOCAL TIMESawtooth Alpine Basins are a network of high-altitude glacial cirques and lakes located in central Idaho, primarily on land managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The basins are characterized by crystal-clear mountain lakes, steep granite slopes, and saddle passes that connect to neighboring ranges like the White Clouds and the central Sawtooth peaks. They are accessed from trailheads such as the Sawtooth Valley or Quinn Creek, with routes ranging from intermediate overnight loops to multi-day traverse lines. Visitors come for alpine fishing, scenic photography, and mountaineering routes; expect thin air, significant elevation gain, and changing weather conditions. Nearby landmarks include Redfish Lake, Mount Hoover, and the Feather Pass region. Adequate planning, map use, and Leave No Trace camping are recommended to safely explore these remote basins.
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