Alice–Toxaway Loop Backpacking Guide: Routes, Campsites & Tips for the Sawtooths

BackpackingUnited States
Written By Skye Stoury

A Stunning 2-Day Backpacking Trip Through Idaho’s Sawtooth Wilderness

girl camping at alice lake idaho

Why Backpack the Alice–Toxaway Loop in Idaho’s Sawtooths

The Sawtooth Mountains in central Idaho are a backpacker’s paradise with rugged, scenic, and far less crowded than other popular Northwest ranges. With jagged peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and miles of backcountry trails, the Sawtooths are one of the best places in Idaho for an overnight backpacking trip. On our second visit to the area, we opted for the classic Alice–Toxaway Loop, hiking it counterclockwise and spending one night at Toxaway Lake. If I were planning it again, I’d stretch it into a two-night trip with a night at either Twin Lakes or Alice Lake as well.

While the standard Alice–Toxaway Loop is about 19 miles, it’s easy to add extra lakes or summits. We decided to extend our route by climbing an additional pass that isn’t part of the traditional loop—and the views were absolutely worth it. Our version included a detour to Edith Lake and a quick, easy summit of Sand Mountain before dropping down to Toxaway Lake for the night. The next morning, we continued from Toxaway to Alice Lake and then back to the Tin Cup Trailhead, finishing with 24.5 miles and 4,758 feet of elevation gain.

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Table of Contents

    girl backpacking above twin lakes idaho

    Hiking the pass above Twin Lakes

    Trail Details

    All of this is for the actual Alice-Toxaway Loop, but I am including a map of our route side by side with the original for reference. The map on the left shows the actual loop, while the map on the right shows our added section in red.

    Start/End: Tin Cup Trailhead (Pettit Lake)

    Distance: 19 miles (extended version: 24.5 miles in red)

    Elevation Gain: 4,014 ft (extended version 4,758 ft in red)

    Permits: Self-issued at wilderness boundary

    2-Day Alice–Toxaway Loop Itinerary

    Day 1: Tin Cup TH -> Edith Lake -> Sand Mountain -> Toxaway Lake

    We started at the Tin Cup hiker trailhead at Pettit Lake and shortly after starting we took a right fork to head up and over the ridge. The first few miles were in the forest and nice and shady. We hit our only creek crossing for the day around mile three, it was running high, up to knee deep, so we switched in to sandals to cross. After that it was an easy and mostly flat trail to Farley Lake, where we ate lunch. From Farley we forked right and began gaining elevation up to Edith Lake, which was beautiful but just a stop along the way.

    couple backpacking above edith lake idaho

    Above Edith Lake, heading up to Sand Mountain

    Past Edith we entered the high alpine, filled with rocky peaks and small tarns, along with a little bit of patchy snow (nothing that you could not cross in trail runners). We continued up to the pass below Sand Mountain, dropped our packs in the saddle and hiked up to summit Sand, which was a very short detour and well worth it for the views. From there we hiked up to another rideline above Toxaway, and then descended to the lake to find a campsite.

    Toxaway Lake is huge and has many campsites surrounding the lake. We opted for one a little higher up that we could have both lake and mountain views. Our spot also felt secluded even though there were others camping near by. We went down to the lakeshore for dinner and to filter water, then headed back up to our campsite for the night. The mosquitos were not awful until dusk, then they really started to come out. We were already in our tent by then so they didn’t really bother us.

    girl backpacking at toxaway lake idaho

    Toxaway Lake

    Day 2: Toxaway Lake ->Twin Lakes -> Alice Lake -> Pettit Lake

    We woke up just before sunrise to watch the light come over the peaks. The mosquitos started coming out shortly after sunrise, so we set up our Thermacell Backpacker on a fuel canister to create a bug free zone while we made breakfast and packed up camp. Once packed up, we headed back down to the water of fill up our bladders for the hike over the pass to Alice Lake. 

    man backpacking above twin lakes idaho

    Garrett crossing the snow patch above Twin Lakes

    After ascending above Alice, we reached a couple beautiful, high alpine lakes and tarns, along with an exposed trail up to the pass. Coming around the corner, there was a large patch of snow at the pass proper, but it was easy to walk on. I was blown away by the view of Twin Lakes below, and was happy that we decided to hike counter clockwise to get this amazing view at the top. 

    Twin Lakes from the pass above

    Looking down at Twin Lakes from the pass above

    From there we descended to Twin Lakes and then to Alice, with amazing views along the exposed trail. We stoped for lunch at Alice Lake, and then continued on down. The trail between Alice and Pettit Lake has at least four creek crossings that can’t be avoided, so be ready to put your sandals/water shoes on. We ended up leaving our Teva sandals on for several miles, knowing that we had more crossings ahead. It saved time instead of having to put our trail runners on and take them off again. Other than the creek crossings, the trail was in good shape until a short section of down trees from a large avalanche that must have come through over the winter. There were cairns to follow across a boulder field to get you back on track.

    The rest of the hike out was very gradual, and a little cooler once we got into the trees. Then you hike along Pettit Lake until you get back to the Tin Cup Trailhead where you started. 

    What to Pack for the Alice–Toxaway Backpacking Loop

    A quick stop at Edith Lake

    Edith Lake

    Backpacking Gear List

    We usually both carry the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55L, but I decided to test out my new Unbound on this trip. After a full day on trail, I realized I still prefer the Southwest for overall comfort, and I’d recommend it as the best ultralight pack for multi-night backpacking. It’s also great for a quick overnight, and Garrett was perfectly happy with his.

    Garrett: Hyperlite Southwest 55L
    Skye:     Hyperlite Unbound 40L (loved how streamlined it felt, but would choose the Southwest again for comfort)

    Clothing + Shoe Recommendations

    Sleep System

    couple having dinner at alice lake idaho

    Food + Water

    Cook Set

    Extras

    Toxaway Lake

    Route Variations & Add-Ons

    One of the best things about the Alice–Toxaway Loop is how customizable it is. The standard loop is already packed with incredible views, but you can easily add side trips, extra lakes, or even a summit if you want to stretch the adventure.

    Edith Lake Spur (Highly Recommended)

    We added a side trip to Edith Lake, which sits in a quiet basin away from the main loop. The climb is steady but short, and the extra miles are absolutely worth it for the turquoise water and peaceful shoreline. This detour adds roughly 2–3 miles depending on how far you explore.

    Sand Mountain Summit

    If you want an easy, non-technical summit with huge panoramic views, Sand Mountain is a great option. From the ridge near Edith Lake, it’s a short and mellow climb to the top. This adds less than a mile and gives you one of the best perspectives of the Sawtooths.

    Twin Lakes Overlook

    Whether or not you camp here, take a quick detour to the Twin Lakes overlook. If you’re hiking counterclockwise, the elevated viewpoint hits you with one of the most dramatic reveals of the entire loop. It’s a short, worthwhile spur off the main trail.

    Snowyside Peak (Advanced)

    For experienced hikers comfortable with off-trail travel and class 2/3 scrambling, Snowyside Peak is a big, rewarding add-on. You’ll get sweeping 360º views across the Sawtooth Wilderness. Only attempt this in good weather and low snow conditions.

    Alice Lake Out-and-Back

    If you want a shorter option, Alice Lake makes a perfect out-and-back day hike or overnight. You’ll still get alpine lakes, big granite walls, and postcard-perfect views without committing to the full loop.

    Camping Regulations, Permits & Leave No Trace

    The Alice–Toxaway Loop sits inside the Sawtooth Wilderness, which has a few important rules.

    Permits

    You do not need a reservation permit, but you do need to complete a free self-issue wilderness permit. You’ll find the permit box about one mile from the Tin Cup Trailhead at the wilderness boundary on you hike in. Fill it out, keep the top copy with you, and drop the rest in the box.

    Camping Regulations

    • Camp at least 100 feet from lakes and streams

    • Use established sites to minimize impact

    • Campfires are not allowed in many alpine zones (check signs at the trailhead — most high-elevation lakes prohibit fires)

    • No cutting branches or altering campsites

    • Store food securely; bears are uncommon but present. An Ursack in a proper tree bearhang or similar bear-safe storage is recommended.

    Leave No Trace Tips

    This loop is popular, and it only takes a few careless campers to damage the fragile alpine environment.
    A few quick reminders:

    • Pack out everything, including food scraps and toilet paper

    • Dig catholes 6–8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water

    • Stay on trail to avoid damaging fragile vegetation

    • Keep group sizes small

    • Respect other hikers

    • Leave the lakes, rocks, and shoreline exactly as you found them

    Being thoughtful out here makes a huge difference, and the Sawtooths are too stunning to treat any other way.

    Where to Stay Near the Alice–Toxaway Loop

    If you're traveling in from out of town or want a basecamp before/after your hike, here are great places to stay near Pettit Lake and the Tin Cup Trailhead:

    Closest to the Trailhead

    Stanley, Idaho (Best Home Base – 25–30 min drive)

    Vanlife-Friendly Spots

    There are numerous pullouts along Highway 75 and along the salmon river. Many are legal for overnighting and offer dark skies, mountain views and pit toilets.

    FAQ: Alice–Toxaway Loop Backpacking Guide

    How difficult is the Alice–Toxaway Loop?

    The standard loop is rated moderate to challenging due to elevation gain, creek crossings, and some exposed sections near the passes. If you’re comfortable with 10–13 mile days and carrying an overnight pack, this loop is totally doable.

    Do you need a permit to backpack the Alice–Toxaway Loop?

    You do not need a reservation permit. Permits are self-issued at the wilderness boundary ~mile into the trail. They’re free and help track visitor use.

    When is the best time of year to hike the loop?

    Late July through mid-September offers the most reliable snow-free conditions. Early summer can still have snow patches near the passes. Mosquitos peak in July.

    Can you do the Alice–Toxaway Loop in one day?

    Yes. Many trail runners and strong hikers complete it in a long day, but the best scenery is worth an overnight.

    Is the loop better clockwise or counterclockwise?

    Counterclockwise gives you the most dramatic reveal of Twin Lakes from above.

    Are dogs allowed?

    Dogs must be on leash while on trails from July 1 through Labor Day. Control your pet. Loose dogs can harass wildlife and stock and disturb other visitors.

    Are there designated campsites?

    There are no official designated sites, but there are many established backcountry spots around Toxaway, Twin Lakes, and Alice.

    Is there cell service on the trail?

    Cell service is very limited to nonexistent. Download offline maps before you go (Gaia GPS recommended) and carry a sattilite messaging device such as a Garmin Inreach Mini 2

    Final Thoughts

    Backpacking in the Idaho Sawtooths is such an amazing experience. Every time we go, it reminds me of the Enchantments in Washington but with way less people. If this loop seems like too much for you or your group, there are a lot of other shorter options that make great one night trips. If you are planning a trip to Idaho, I highly recommend adding the Sawtooths to your itinerary, even just as a day hike.

     
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    About the Authors

    Skye Stoury & Garrett Arnold

    Hi, we're Skye and Garrett; husband-and-wife travel bloggers and outdoor athletes chasing big landscapes and bigger adventures. Now in our fourth year of full-time travel, we've hiked and backpacked thousands of miles, summited countless alpine peaks, and explored adventurous destinations across the U.S., Canada, and around the world. From remote backcountry routes, to scuba diving off islands in SE Asia, we live for adventure travel. We want to share our real-world travel experiences and trusted gear knowledge with our readers, to help you travel better and make your next adventure the best one yet.

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