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

Most viewed - Sawtooth Lake loop via Trail Creek, North Fork Baron Creek, Grandjean Idaho; revisted July 8, 2023
DSCF0592.JPG
 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!
DSCF0610.JPG
 DSCF0610.JPG6 viewsThe trail becomes rather sparse. It is seldom traveled. At least there is shade now as the sun has set to the northwest below the steep hillside. This is a relief as I descend quickly toward Grandjean, at a much lower elevation.
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 DSCF0619.JPG6 viewsThis pine reminds me of a giant Bonsai tree. If only the botanist were here!
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 DSCF0562.JPG5 viewsAbove the initial switchbacks and into the sun lit east bound sections above Trail Creek. It is still nice and cool. The backlit vegetation makes this section especially scenic. The mosquitoes like it too, encouraging me to hasten my pace.
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 DSCF0564.JPG5 viewsThe wildflowers already looked stressed at this low elevation.
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 DSCF0570.JPG5 viewsWell past the signpost marking the turnoff for Trail Creek Lakes, the views open up to the southwest as the trail climbs north toward Stanley. Through the burned trees, one can see the Monte Verita ridge rising above Baron Creek, well to the south.
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 DSCF0571.JPG5 viewsObservation Peak to the north, toward Stanley Lake
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 DSCF0576.JPG5 viewsWildflowers and creek on the initial climb toward McGown Lakes.
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 DSCF0578.JPG5 viewsA plethora of wildflowers in the McGown Lakes basin.
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 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!
DSCF0582.JPG
 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.
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 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.
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