Idaho Exposure

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

Last additions
DSCF0595.JPG
 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!Jul 13, 2023
DSCF0593.JPG
 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.Jul 13, 2023
DSCF0592.JPG
 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!Jul 13, 2023
DSCF0590.JPG
 DSCF0590.JPG4 viewsHeading due south from the outlet of Sawtooth Lake toward my appointment with the North Fork of Baron Creek.Jul 13, 2023
DSCF0589.JPG
 DSCF0589.JPG3 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.JPG
 DSCF0587.JPG3 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.JPG
 DSCF0586.JPG3 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.JPG
 DSCF0585.JPG3 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.JPG
 DSCF0584.JPG3 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.JPG
 DSCF0582.JPG4 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.JPG
 DSCF0580.JPG3 viewsThis stream marks the short climb to the highest of the McGown Lakes.Jul 13, 2023
DSCF0579.JPG
 DSCF0579.JPG3 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
3390 files on 283 page(s) 1 - 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 - 283