Sawtooth Lake loop via Trail Creek, North Fork Baron Creek, Grandjean Idaho; revisted July 8, 2023
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DSCF0590.JPG4 viewsHeading due south from the outlet of Sawtooth Lake toward my appointment with the North Fork of Baron Creek.
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DSCF0592.JPG4 viewsThe water is so clear. I've never fished this lake. I have taken rainbow on a previous backpack to Lake 8771 to the southeast, leaving the trail at point just before it begins it's steep descent toward the North Fork Baron Creek. I look back to the north and see someone dive into lake. Fearing cardiac arrest, I'm not quite ready to take that plunge!
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DSCF0593.JPG5 viewsMt. Regen in class IV; a rope is required. On a previous trip, a less experienced companion and I were descending from the saddle west of Regen, trying to reach the trial at the south end of the lake. He did not feel safe crossing the steep snow above the lake. We were losing the light. I presented two options; traverse around the west side of the lake, not all of which was visible, or retreat back over the saddle. He chose to retreat. Experience now tells me we should have traversed the west side.
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DSCF0595.JPG4 viewsI wonder what caused such a thick branch to be broken from this pine. If it were lightening, one would expect the tree to be blackened from fire. Perhaps an avalanche, or wind when the branch was heavily weighted with snow. Just ahead I will refill water, and mix a much needed electrolytic replacement drink. Geographically, this is the midpoint of the hike. But then, it is all downhill now!
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DSCF0596.JPG3 viewsThe tarn (8489 feet) at the south end of Sawtooth Lake is worth hiking to, even if one is coming from Iron Creek, and heading back the same way. I stop here for a quick snack, seeking the shelter of the trees to avoid the sprinkles, which are becoming persistent.
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DSCF0597.JPG4 viewsSouthern end of tarn (8489 feet) at the south end of Sawtooth Lake; there is less snow here than last year at this same time. It's cooled down considerably, and the shade is welcome relief.
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DSCF0598.JPG3 viewsI'm hearing thunder in the distance, but thus far, the sprinkles are light. I'm using a GE StrapShot Holster for the first time. My camera is within easy reach on the shoulder strap of my pack. It works well. I'm taking more photos as a result. It came with a rain cover. Why I didn't bring it along, knowing full well that a 30% chance of thundershowers was forecast, I'll never know. If the rain increases, the camera will go into the pack, and I will miss shots in the rapidly changing light.
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DSCF0600.JPG3 viewsThe next lakes (elevation 8271 feet) come into view.
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DSCF0602.JPG4 viewsDirect sunlight from the west illuminates the snow on Baron Peak (left), and the Monte Verita ridge behind it (center and right). I don't see the distinctive shape of Warbonnet Peak, but I am used to seeing it from the south. It may just be hidden behind Baron Peak. I don't stop to take out the sighting compass and figure out exactly what I am looking at, concerned about thunderstorms causing the North Fork Baron Creek to rise.
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DSCF0603.JPG3 viewsLake (elevation 8271 feet) beckons me to stay a while, enjoy the tranquil beauty, and enjoy a snack. It's already after 4 p.m., and while my time thus far is better than usual, I continue, in hopes of getting back to the trailhead while it is still light.
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DSCF0604.JPG3 viewsPatterns on the water; Lake (elevation 8271 feet), southeast of Sawtooth Lake.
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DSCF0605.JPG4 viewsFour tributaries constitute the headwaters of the North Fork of Baron Creek. Of the two flowing from the north, this is the more westerly. The other two flow from the east and southeast.
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