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Home > Sawtooth Lake loop via Trail Creek, North Fork Baron Creek, Grandjean Idaho, July 9, 2022

Most viewed - Sawtooth Lake loop via Trail Creek, North Fork Baron Creek, Grandjean Idaho, July 9, 2022
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 DSCF0416.JPG11 viewsOne of the easier log crossings over Trail Creek, well before arriving at Trail Lakes.
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 DSCF0437a.JPG11 viewsAmanda returns the favor with a rare photo of the author in his element!
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 DSCF0446.JPG11 viewsThe small lake just S of Sawtooth Lake is a beautiful alternative to the crowds camping at the S end of Sawtooth Lake.
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 DSCF0415.JPG10 viewsWildflowers encountered with the first 2 miles high above Trail Creek.
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 DSCF0417.JPG10 viewsLooking back, SW, toward Trail Lakes.
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 DSCF0420.JPG10 views
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 DSCF0427.JPG10 viewsThis is the most snow I have seen at the saddle overlooking the lake.
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 DSCF0432.JPG10 viewsAs I am taking photos, Amanda (red pack), and her Norwegian companion (and well-behaved dog) arrive at the saddle for the first time, overwhelmed by the amazing and well-earned view. I offer to capture the moment for them. We met before reaching McGown Lakes. They are taking 3 days to do the same loop I am doing as a dayhike. Their plan is to camp at off-trail Lake 8771, which I visited in August 2019. We play leapfrog to the south end of Sawtooth Lake, where I stop to get water.
DSCF0433.JPG
 DSCF0433.JPG10 viewsI try to clue them in on the best approach to Lake 8771, as well as the challenges descending the N Fork Barron Creek, without spoiling surprises. I suggest the safer way to regain the trail from our current position, and how to protect the descent using trekking poles as one would use an ice ax.
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 DSCF0440.JPG10 viewsYes, the previous shot is definitely better!
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 DSCF0455.JPG10 viewsThis shows a possible ford on frame right, which the long log on the right points to. It also shows the deadly consequences of being swept 20 feet below, should one lose his footing in the deep, swift water. Based on my kayaking experience, this was a risk I was not willing to take. This is a few hundred feet upstream from where I crossed.
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 DSCF0418.JPG9 viewsTo the N, the turnoff to McGown Lakes to the E is near the low point on the skyline.
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