4-Day Fly Fishing Trek Alice Lakes, Pettit, Toxaway, Loop in the Sawtooth Mountains
Thinking about a 4-Day Backpacking and Fly Fishing Trekking the Pettit Toxaway Alice Lakes Loop in the Sawtooth Mountains? You are in the right spot. This trip is something special, a premier backpacking trip in the Sawtooth Mountains Idaho. Nestled in Idaho’s rugged Sawtooth Mountains, this hike loop offers incredible alpine views and fantastic fishing. If you want adventure, this 4-Day Backpacking and Fly Fishing Trekking the Pettit Toxaway Alice Lakes Loop in the Sawtooth Mountains will deliver memories for a lifetime.
This journey blends tough hikes with chances to cast into pristine alpine lakes. Maybe you are a seasoned angler aiming to fool wary trout. Or perhaps you just like waving a fly rod amidst amazing scenery in the Sawtooth Wilderness. You will learn about trails, the best flies for these mountain waters, and maybe share a laugh about common trail mishaps, because everyone makes a few out there.
So, get your boots ready and that fly rod assembled. Let us explore this Sawtooth Mountains adventure together, focusing on the celebrated Alice Toxaway loop. As I sit and recall, for a it’s been a few decades since I have done this trip. If you backpack It’s an incredible trip. Fly fish as well, you have hit a home run.
Before I ramble on more, the first time I did this trek was one of my first solo backpacking trips in the late 70’s. I took off not prepared and knowing better. One of those spur of the moment things. By my return to the trailhead my hiking shoes at the time a pair of red Converse with the soles barely attached. What an awesome trip.
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Life on the Road & Trail Begins a New Chapter
Mid late 70’s it was easier to manipulate the system to gain access to freedom. Not now. This freedom allowed me to begin a of travel, hiking, backpacking and interesting situations. There were no cell phones, google or internet. A map and Compass marked the way. One had to rely on there wits, street smarts, and the Boy Scout Motto, “Be Prepared”.
Back in those days never gave bears much of a thought, now a days I wouldn’t go to the wilderness without bear spray.
Preparation and Planning: Gearing Up for the Wild
Before you hit the trail for your backpacking Alice Toxaway loop, we need to discuss planning. The Alice-Toxaway Loop, a classic lake loop, often starts at the Tin Cup Trailhead. This trailhead is near Pettit Lake and the Pettit Lake Campground. It is about a 2-hour drive from Ketchum, Idaho, through stunning landscapes leading to the Sawtooth National Forest.
A wilderness permit is required for overnight stays; you can usually get this free at the trailhead. Just fill it out completely, as this information helps the Forest Service keep track of visitors and assist in emergencies. Check current regulations before you go, as fire restrictions or other rules may be in place.
Some hikers choose to do this loop clockwise, but the counter-clockwise direction described here (Tin Cup to Alice Lake first) is popular. This route tackles the climb to Alice Lake early. A habit I formed early when I first started backpacking, If possible do the hard climbs early in the trip. Proper food storage is mandatory to protect wildlife, especially from black bears.
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What to Pack
For backpacking, think light but thorough; your total mileage will be significant. You will need a lightweight tent suitable for mountain conditions, often three-season. A sleeping bag rated for chilly mountain nights, perhaps 20°F (-6°C) or lower, is smart, paired with an insulated sleeping pad. A comfortable backpack, properly fitted and between 50-65 liters, makes all the difference on a multi-day backpack trip.
A reliable water filter or purification system is crucial because streams and lakes are your drinking source. You should also bring waterproof boots for the trail and perhaps sandals or water shoes for creek crossings. A small backpacking stove, fuel, and cooking pot are essential for hot meals and morning coffee. And a bear canister or sufficient rope and knowledge to properly hang food is very important; black bears are active in the Sawtooth Mountains and are very clever about accessing improperly stored food.
For fly fishing, a 3 to 6-weight fly rod, about 7.5 to 9 feet long, works well for the trout here; a 4-piece rod is easiest to pack. Pack your reel and a weight-forward floating line. A tapered leader, about 9 feet long ending in 4x to 6x tippet, is standard. Bring a selection of flies too; we will cover those soon. Polarized sunglasses are indispensable for spotting fish and protecting your eyes. A small, lightweight net makes landing fish much easier and gentler on them if practicing catch-and-release.
Essential Backpacking Gear Checklist
| Category | Item | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shelter | Lightweight Tent | 3-season, appropriate for number of hikers. |
| Sleep System | Sleeping Bag & Pad | Bag: 15-20°F rating. Pad: Insulated for warmth. |
| Pack | Backpack | 50-65 liter capacity, with rain cover. |
| Cooking | Stove, Fuel, Pot, Utensils | Lighter/matches in waterproof container. |
| Water | Filter/Purifier, Water Bottles/Reservoir | Carry at least 2-3 liters capacity. |
| Food | Meals & Snacks | High-energy options, plus bear canister/Ursack for food storage. |
| Navigation | Map, Compass/GPS | Know how to use them. Download offline maps. |
| Safety | First-aid kit, Headlamp, Knife/Multi-tool | Sunscreen, insect repellent, emergency shelter. |
| Clothing | Layering system, Rain Gear, Hat, Gloves | Wool or synthetic fabrics. Extra socks. |
| Fly Fishing | Rod, Reel, Line, Leaders, Tippet, Flies, Net, License | Forceps for hook removal. Polarized sunglasses. |
Always carry the Ten Essentials for safety in the backcountry. Your preparedness can make a challenging situation manageable. This list isn’t exhaustive but covers the main items for your Sawtooth adventure. Now I have a disorder, called camera gear and carrying too much of it by most standards. The other Item I forgot to add to the upper list is a bear bag or barrel for food storage and bear spray are both a must.
When to Go
The best time for this Alice Toxaway lake loop adventure is from mid-July to September. Snow has mostly melted from the high mountain pass trails by then. Wildflowers are usually blooming profusely, creating carpets of color. Fish are generally active during this period, making for rewarding angling opportunities. June can work, but you might find significant snow on high passes like Snowyside Pass, potentially requiring an ice axe and traction devices. You might also encounter higher water levels in any small stream crossing.
October offers beautiful fall colors but is a bit of a gamble with early winter weather. Late summer can sometimes bring smoky haze from regional wildfires, so check air quality reports. Always check the local weather forecast, perhaps from the National Weather Service, before you leave for your backpacking trip. Mountain weather changes fast, so pack layers, including good rain gear and warm insulation, regardless of the forecast.
Day 1: Hiking to Alice Lake – The Adventure Begins
Your journey starts at the Tin Cup Trailhead. It can be a busy place, especially on weekends during peak season, so a weekday start is often less crowded. Try to get there early to find parking. The lake hike to Alice Lake is about 5.5 miles with an elevation gain of around 1,600 feet. This is enough to feel it, but not totally exhausting, a good first day for your multi-day backpack adventure.
The Trail
You will start by walking along the north shore of Pettit Lake. It is a beautiful spot, with pine forests and distant views of rugged peaks, possibly even the White Cloud mountains on a clear day. The lake trail is relatively flat here, a good warm-up. About 1.2 miles in, you will reach the Sawtooth Wilderness boundary; say goodbye to cell service now and embrace the solitude. Beyond this point, different regulations apply, emphasizing Leave No Trace principles.
From there, the trail begins to climb steadily through a lodgepole pine and fir forest. You will hear the crunch of needles under your boots as the path switchbacks up the mountainside. Your legs will feel the ascent, but the views over your shoulder of Pettit Lake and the valley make the effort worthwhile. Keep an eye out for wildlife like mule deer, pikas, marmots, and various bird species. I nearly stumbled when a deer appeared suddenly from the trees on a previous trip.
Around mile 4, you will encounter a creek crossing. In July, it is often an easy hop across some well-placed rocks. But after a wet spring or early summer melt, you might be wading through shin-deep, cold water. I learned that soggy socks can really spoil a good hike quickly; those extra sandals or water shoes are a great idea here. Past this creek, the trail levels out somewhat. Soon, you will get your first glimpse of Alice Lake, with the magnificent granite face of El Capitan towering above it, a truly iconic Sawtooth mountain formation.
Camping at Alice Lake
Campsites are found around the lake’s northern and western shores, often tucked into clusters of trees. These spots can fill up fast in the summer months, particularly on weekends. Aim to arrive by mid-afternoon to secure a good one. Choose an established spot at least 200 feet from the water’s edge to protect the fragile environment, a key Forest Service guideline. Setting up camp is your next task.
I remember a bold chipmunk, a common sight at any lake campground in the area, trying to steal my trail mix as I set up my tent. It was a good reminder to always secure your food, even during a brief snack break. Be aware that jays and ground squirrels are also notorious for pilfering unattended food items. Proper food storage is critical, not just for bears but for all wildlife.
Once your camp is ready, relax and enjoy the stunning view. Alice Lake’s clear, turquoise water reflects El Capitan and the surrounding peaks perfectly, especially in the calm morning or evening light. The silence is profound, broken only by an occasional bird call or the splash of a fish jumping. This brings us to the next activity.
Fly Fishing at Alice Lake: Chasing Brook Trout
Alice Lake is home to many brook trout, and it’s a popular alpine lake for anglers. These colorful fish make fly fishing here very enjoyable. They are the main catch in this lake, though some reports mention cutthroat trout as well. They can sometimes be quite selective, especially when insect hatches are sparse. Early morning or late evening are often the best times to fish. Midday can be too sunny and bright, and the fish seem less active then, often retreating to deeper water. Knowing about general fly fishing gear and techniques can really improve your chances on this high-altitude alpine lake.
Best Fly Patterns
Since brook trout are common here, let us discuss effective flies. For dry fly fishing, patterns like a Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, or a Royal Wulff in sizes 12 to 16 work well when fish are feeding on the surface. These attractor patterns imitate various insects and can often trick even wary trout. I had good success with a tan Elk Hair Caddis pattern one evening as fish were gently sipping bugs from the surface film just as the sun dipped behind Snowyside Peak.
If fish are not rising, try fishing subsurface with nymphs. Nymphs such as a Pheasant Tail (size 16-18), Hare’s Ear (size 14-18), or a small Prince Nymph can be effective. Adding a small beadhead to your nymph can provide extra weight to get down and a touch of flash. Fish it slowly under a small strike indicator, or try a Euro-nymphing technique if you are familiar with it. For potentially larger brook trout, or when no hatches are apparent, you could try a Woolly Bugger streamer. Sizes 8 to 12 in olive, black, or brown are good choices. Strip it back steadily or with short, erratic pulls, and be ready for a strike.
Tips for Fly Fishing Alice Lake
Approach the shoreline quietly and carefully, minimizing your silhouette. Brook trout in clear alpine lakes like Alice Lake spook very easily. Try to cast from a bit of a distance, using rocks or vegetation as cover if possible. Let your dry fly land softly on the water and aim for a drag-free drift. Watch for any ripples, flashes, or movement near your fly. My first cast on one trip was a bit clumsy, landing with a splash, and I think the fish for 20 yards scattered. But patience is important in fly fishing.
After a few more careful attempts, I hooked a lively brook trout. Its red spots and vibrant orange belly were brilliant in the sunlight. Catch-and-release fishing is strongly encouraged to help keep this fishery healthy for everyone. So, handle fish minimally with wet hands, take a quick photo if desired, and let the fish go gently. If the fish are not biting, do not worry too much. The view of El Capitan reflected in Alice Lake is a reward itself. Plus, you still have three more days on your lake hike to try your luck at other locations like Toxaway Lake or even an unnamed lake if you feel adventurous and consult your map for possibilities.
Day 2: Exploring Alice Lake and Twin Lakes
Day two is a chance to explore more around Alice Lake without moving your camp, or to make a day hike to nearby Twin Lakes. You can stretch your legs and fish some different water. After breakfast, perhaps after shooing away that curious chipmunk again, consider heading up to Twin Lakes. It is a short 1.5-mile hike from the northern end of Alice Lake, a great way to spend a few hours if you are not a day hiker just passing through.
The Hike to Twin Lakes
The trail to Twin Lakes climbs about 700 feet from Alice Lake. It winds through subalpine meadows often filled with vibrant wildflowers during mid-summer. You might see lupine, columbine, Indian paintbrush, and arnica in full color if your timing is right. The trail is steep in sections but quite short. The reward is seeing two beautiful, connected alpine lakes surrounded by rocky peaks and talus slopes. I stopped many times to just admire the views back down towards Alice Lake and across the expansive basin.
Twin Lakes feel even more wild and remote than Alice Lake. There are usually fewer campers around, as most are through-hiking the loop. This gives them a raw, untouched feeling. Find a nice spot by the water, perhaps on one of the rocky outcrops separating the two lakes. You might even have the place all to yourself for a while, a truly serene experience in the Sawtooth Mountains.
Fishing Twin Lakes
Just like Alice Lake, Twin Lakes hold brook trout. Some anglers believe they have seen cutthroat trout there as well, though brook trout are more common. You can use similar fly patterns that worked at Alice Lake. A Royal Wulff or a Stimulator in sizes 12-16 can be good dry fly choices. A Pheasant Tail nymph or a Copper John works well if fish are holding deeper. A small black or olive Woolly Bugger can be effective if you want to try for a bigger fish, especially when fished near drop-offs or structure. I tried a yellow Stimulator pattern in the morning light. I got a strike within just a few minutes, showing that these fish can be quite eager, especially if they haven’t seen many flies.
The wind can sometimes pick up at Twin Lakes, funneling through the surrounding peaks. If it does, you might need to adjust your casting, perhaps using a more powerful stroke or switching to a slightly heavier fly to help with turnover. One helpful tip from locals is to fish near the inlets where streams feed into the lakes, or the outlet of the upper lake as it flows into the lower one. Trout often gather there for the fresh oxygen and incoming food. Exploring these alpine lakes is part of the joy of this backpacking trip.
By the afternoon, you can hike back to your camp at Alice Lake. You can fish some more there, targeting areas you haven’t tried yet. Or, you could simply relax, read a book, or take a nap by the lake. I actually did both on my trip. The nap was particularly welcome after I nearly tripped over a hidden rock; it felt like the mountains were telling me to slow down and rest before the challenging day ahead.
Day 3: Conquering Snowyside Pass to Reach Toxaway Lake
Day three is often considered the most challenging hiking day of this particular Alice Toxaway loop. You will cover about 6 miles. This includes climbing over Snowyside Pass, a significant mountain pass. It is the highest point on this loop, at 9,400 feet. It is a tough ascent with considerable miles elevation gain, but the panoramic views are truly epic, encompassing many rugged peaks including Snowyside Peak itself. And the stunning Toxaway Lake waits for you in the basin below.
The Climb
From Alice Lake, the trail climbs steadily upward, switchbacking above the lake. You will gain about 1,200 feet in roughly 2 miles to reach the pass. You pass rocky areas, and the trees get smaller and sparser as you go higher. Soon, you will be above the treeline, navigating talus fields and alpine tundra. You will be looking at a series of switchbacks snaking up the pass; take your time and enjoy the evolving scenery. My legs were certainly complaining during this section. But every turn revealed a new, breathtaking panorama of the Sawtooth Mountains Idaho.
Alice Lake shrinks below you, its turquoise waters a jewel in the granite landscape. Peaks of the Sawtooth range stretch out as far as you can see, sometimes with views extending to the White Cloud Mountains or other distant ranges like near Sand Mountain. Reaching the top of Snowyside Pass feels like being on top of the world. I celebrated with a well-deserved snack break. Unfortunately, I once dropped a granola bar here, and it tumbled down a steep cliff. Score another one for the local marmots, I guess. Watch out for downed trees on sections of the trail, a common occurrence in these forests.
The descent from Snowyside Pass down to Toxaway Lake is steep and quite rocky for the first mile or so, a significant ft descent. Be sure to watch your footing carefully, especially with a heavy pack and tired legs; trekking poles are very helpful here. After about 2.5 miles of careful downhill hiking, you will reach the shores of the lake. Toxaway Lake is a stunning turquoise color, one of the largest alpine lakes in this part of the Sawtooth Wilderness. It is beautifully surrounded by imposing granite walls and forested slopes.
Camping at Toxaway
Campsites are scattered along the northern and western shores of Toxaway Lake. Some are nestled among trees, which offers some protection from the wind and a bit more privacy. Try to find an established site to minimize impact. Set up your camp, and then take some time to appreciate the quiet grandeur of this place. That is, until a strong gust of wind funnels down from the peaks, reminding you why you staked your tent down so securely the previous night.
Fly Fishing at Toxaway Lake: Another Shot at Glory
Toxaway Lake also primarily holds brook trout, and they can grow to good sizes here. There are persistent rumors of cutthroat trout too, and some anglers report catching them, making it an exciting prospect. The fishing conditions are somewhat similar to Alice Lake, but the larger size, deeper water, and potential for stronger winds at Toxaway Lake can change things up a bit. It presents a new challenge and different opportunities for anglers on the toxaway loop. Remember that conditions can change rapidly in these mountains; the Sawtooth National Forest website often reminds visitors to be prepared for anything.
Fly Patterns
Consider using standard attractor dry flies like the Parachute Adams, Griffith’s Gnat (if midges are present), or an Elk Hair Caddis in sizes 14 to 18. A Royal Wulff is another reliable dry fly choice here, as its white wing is visible on choppy water. For fishing subsurface, nymphs like a Prince Nymph (size 14-16), Copper John, or a simple Hare’s Ear are dependable options. Adding a beadhead can help get your fly down in deeper sections or when wind creates surface currents. A Muddler Minnow or small Woolly Bugger streamer (size 8-10) in olive or black might tempt a larger, more aggressive fish, especially when fished along drop-offs or rocky points. I had luck with an Adams pattern right at dusk one evening near an inlet, landing a spirited brook trout that fought very hard for its size.
Tips
Wind can be your main challenge at Toxaway Lake. Sometimes you can use the wind to your advantage to help carry your cast. Or, you might need to find a sheltered cove or bay to fish effectively. Fish near drop-offs, submerged boulders, or close to any visible inlets or the outlet stream. These are often productive spots where trout congregate to feed or find refuge. My first few casts did not go very far on a particularly breezy afternoon. The breeze turned my fly line into an uncontrolled kite. But persistence eventually paid off, as it often does in fly fishing and when exploring the many alpine lakes here, including potentially Edith Lake or Imogene Lake on a longer itinerary.
Day 4: Hiking Back via Pettit Lake
The final leg of your 4-day backpacking journey is about a 6.5-mile descent from Toxaway Lake back to the Tin Cup Trailhead, which is near where you started at Pettit Lake. You will pass Farley Lake along the way. It is mostly downhill, but tired legs, loose rocks, and a few uphill sections mean you still need to be careful. Remember your total mileage will be significant by the end of this day.
The Trail
From Toxaway Lake, the lake trail drops down towards Farley Lake. Farley Lake is a smaller, pretty lake worth a quick look if you have the energy and time; some limited camping is available there too. Then, you will rejoin the main trail system heading towards Pettit Lake. The path becomes gentler now, though still rocky in places. It weaves through forests of pine and fir, with occasional open meadows offering last views of the high peaks. You may encounter more day hikers as you get closer to Pettit Lake. Be prepared for potential downed trees across the trail, which might require some maneuvering.
Soon, Pettit Lake will greet you with its calm waters. You will also get a fine view looking back at the impressive peaks you just conquered, like Snowyside Peak. I often stop to fish one last time at Pettit Lake, even if just for a few casts. I think I mostly do it because I am not ready for such a great backpacking trip to end. The time hike back to the car always feels bittersweet.
Fishing Pettit Lake
Pettit Lake can hold brook trout and possibly some rainbow trout closer to the developed areas like the Pettit Lake Campground. Since it’s a larger, lower-elevation lake, fishing can be different from the higher alpine lakes. You can try a Parachute Adams (size 14-16) for a dry fly if you see surface activity. A Woolly Bugger streamer is also a good option, similar to the other lakes, perhaps in slightly larger sizes. I did not catch anything on my last attempt here, but the beautiful scenery was still a win, a perfect end to a memorable Alice Toxaway Lake Loop experience. Many similar lakes in the Sawtooth National Forest, such as Redfish Lake or Yellow Belly Lake, offer varied fishing opportunities for future trips.
Back at the trailhead, you will feel that familiar mix of exhaustion and triumph. You have completed an amazing trek through the Sawtooth Mountains. Now it is time to find a good diner in Stanley or Ketchum for a well-deserved meal. You can refuel and start planning your next visit to these mountains, perhaps exploring near Hell Roaring Creek or trying to find an unnamed lake for solitude.
Conclusion of Fly Fishing Trek Alice Lakes Loop
This 4-Day Backpacking and Fly Fishing Trekking the Pettit Toxaway Alice Lakes Loop in the Sawtooth Mountains is truly memorable. It offers a perfect mix of challenging hiking and rewarding, relaxing fishing. The backpacking tests your endurance as you cover many miles and elevation. The fly fishing rewards your patience, or at least gives you some good stories and a chance to connect with the aquatic life of these pristine alpine lakes. The scenery throughout the Pettit, Toxaway, and Alice Lakes loop will leave you speechless. This hike loop is something I highly recommend.
The trout will keep you guessing and coming back for more, whether at Alice Lake, Toxaway Lake, or Twin Lakes. So, pack your gear carefully, obtain your permit, and tie some proven flies. Then, hit the trail for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Sawtooth Wilderness. This is a great day backpack if split into sections, but as a whole, it’s one of the premier backpacking trips in Idaho.
If you have your own fish tales, trail tips, or favorite moments from this incredible Alice Toxaway loop or other backpacking Alice Toxaway loop adventures, please share them in the comments below. I would love to hear about your battles with those crafty Sawtooth brookies and your experiences in the Sawtooth National Forest.
