Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
5,953.00 ft (1,814.47 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
30.50 mi (49.08 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Redfish Lake to Baron Lakes is a 30.5-mile out-and-back through the Sawtooth Wilderness located south of Stanley, Idaho. The route starts from Redfish Lake, the largest lake in the Sawtooth Recreation Area, and heads west to explore the Baron Lakes area. The route features scenic backcountry camping, alpine lakes and scenic vistas. At Baron Lakes, you will discover the quintessential Sawtooth Mountain scenery, complete with jagged peaks and pristine alpine lakes.

This moderately rated route offers incredible scenery within a relatively short distance, making it a perfect weekend getaway or short backpacking trip.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Alpine Lake is a scenic lake, and perfect break spot, located about 1.5-miles below Baron Pass. 

  • After climbing to the top of Baron Pass you will be treated to expansive views of the Sawtooth Mountains. 

MILES AND WAYPOINTS

00.00 - Start / Redfish Lake

05.30 - Junction for Redfish Campground

10.00 - Alpine Lake

13.00 - Baron Pass

15.00 - Baron Lake

16.80 - Upper Baron Lake

24.50 - Redfish Campground

30.50 - End / Redfish Lake 

COMMON VEGETATION

Lodgepole pine, Douglas-fir, Ponderosa pine, whitebark pine, and subalpine fir.

ANIMALS

The Sawtooth Mountains are home to many different species of animal including elk, mule deer, chipmunks, red squirrels, porcupines, black bear, mountain lion, weasel, red fox, pine marten, lynx, wolf, and wolverines.

REDFISH LAKE TRAILHEAD

Redfish Lake is a popular outdoor recreation area that includes a lodge, several campgrounds, a marina, and beaches. Redfish Lake Trailhead parking is designated for overnight backpackers. 

PERMITS AND CAMPING

Permits are free and can be picked up from the trailhead. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Redfish Lake

Sawtooth Wilderness


 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Days

2

Pros

Alpine Lakes. Jagged Peaks. Mountain scenery.

Cons

Some areas can be crowded.

Trailhead Elevation

6,558.00 ft (1,998.88 m)

Highest point

9,129.00 ft (2,782.52 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Backcountry camping
Wildlife
Waterfalls
Big vistas
Wildflowers

Typically multi-day

Yes

Permit required

Yes

Permit self-issue on site

Yes

Location

Nearby Adventures

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