Sawtooth Lake loop via Trail Creek, North Fork Baron Creek, Grandjean Idaho; revisted July 8, 2023

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DSCF0592.JPG6 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!Jul 13, 2023

DSCF0590.JPG7 viewsHeading due south from the outlet of Sawtooth Lake toward my appointment with the North Fork of Baron Creek.Jul 13, 2023

DSCF0589.JPG5 viewsBeyond the lake, on the valley floor lies Stanley; often attaining the lowest temperature in the nation during the winter months.Jul 13, 2023

DSCF0587.JPG5 viewsThis bodes well for North Fork Baron Creek crossing later today. On the other hand, thundershowers might further complicate that crossing.Jul 13, 2023

DSCF0586.JPG4 viewsI am surprised that the lake is completely free of ice. I can already hear voices of the many who have come the easier way from Iron Creek.Jul 13, 2023

DSCF0585.JPG4 viewsI am pleasantly surprised! I arrive at the high point of the loop overlooking Mount Regan above Sawtooth Lake, sooner than expected. The trail takes a circuitous route to this pass, often crossing large sections of snow unnecessarily. Having done it several times, I find it is much easier and faster to head up to the saddle without trying to keep track of the often buried trail. For years, I did not post photos from this fabulous perspective. It is a well deserved reward for those who make the effort!Jul 13, 2023

DSCF0584.JPG5 viewsLooking back to the west toward Grandjean, the developing thunderstorm is looking ominous. I hope to be heading down the North Fork of Baron Creek before any showers.Jul 13, 2023

DSCF0582.JPG5 viewsOn the south side of the trail, at an elevation of 8505 feet, the highest of the McGown Lakes is about 75 higher in elevation than Sawtooth Lake just over the ridge to the east. As I recall, it is still a pretty good pull to the pass leading to Sawtooth Lake.Jul 13, 2023

DSCF0580.JPG4 viewsThis stream marks the short climb to the highest of the McGown Lakes.Jul 13, 2023

DSCF0579.JPG5 viewsAnother of the McGown Lakes north of the trail at 8470 feet. Several years back, someone abandoned several items in this area that proved too burdensome, including a holster for bear spray, a case for a fly rod, an 8 oz isobutane canister with 1/4 of the fuel remaining, two empty small nylon stuff sacks, and a can of Jenny Lake Lager! I would consider myself lucky to see a bear back here. This year, someone left a nice article of clothing on that last signpost. I was hoping my pack would get lighter!Jul 13, 2023

DSCF0577.JPG4 viewsThe first of the McGown Lakes appears to the north at 8250 feet. Note the development of the cumulus over the Stanley Valley.Jul 13, 2023

DSCF0578.JPG5 viewsA plethora of wildflowers in the McGown Lakes basin.Jul 13, 2023

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Idaho Exposure

Hiking, Climbing, Backpacking, Snowshoeing, Backcountry Skiing. Photos by Thomas Oetzell; idahoexposure.com