The Saddleback Lakes are located in the Sawtooth Mountains of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, in Custer County, Idaho. Saddleback Lakes can be accessed from the Redfish Lake Creek Canyon Trail. It is a popular hiking destination even though the trail to the lake is considered to be the steepest in the Sawtooths Wilderness. Hikers need a permit that can be purchased at a registration box at trailheads.
The mountain called Elephants Perch is located to the north of the Saddleback Lakes towering over the water with massive granite slabs. It is the most popular technical climbing location in the Sawtooths Mountains. It has the most significant number of technical climbing routes available during the summer season. Camping around the lake is also a popular option as well as fishing and stargazing. Mountain bikes are not allowed in Sawtooths Wilderness. Hikers can also explore Redfish Lake Canyon and Cramer Lakes in the area.
Sawtooth Wilderness is famous for its amazing views and wildlife watching. The closest town to the lakes is Stanley, Idaho. Many hikers start out from Redfish Lake trailhead. The Redfish Lake Creek trail goes southwest for about two mi (three km). From there at the junction take the main hiking trail to Elephants Perch. The trail goes across the river and starts climbing up along the west face of the Elephants Perch. The first Saddleback Lake is in about three miles distance from the trailhead. The hiking and climbing season runs from July through September.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Saddleback Lakes in Idaho?
The Saddleback Lakes in Idaho are best visited during the hiking and climbing season from July through September. The surrounding mountains offer visitors stunning sights of alpine glacial lakes which are perfect for fishing, and also stargazing in July and August. Show more
Where can one get a permit to hike to the lake?
To get a permit for hiking to Saddleback Lakes, hikers can purchase one from registration boxes located at trailheads. From Redfish Lake trailhead, hikers can take the main trail to Elephants Perch before climbing upwards to the Saddleback Lake which is approximately a three-mile distance from the trailhead. Show more
What is the elevation of Saddleback Lakes?
Located in the Sawtooth Mountains of Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Saddleback Lakes is situated amidst rolling mountain terrain. Situated at a height of approximately 8848 feet (2692 meters) above sea level, the area offers stunning views of the stunning natural landscape. Show more
Are mountain bikes allowed in Sawtooth Wilderness?
The preservation of natural habitats, landscapes, and the region's wilderness character means that visitors are not permitted to cycle using motorized or mechanized vehicles such as mountain bikes in Sawtooth Wilderness. Tourists interested in exploring the area can still hike, climb and use watercraft while preserving the area's unique ecological and scenic values. Show more
What wildlife can be seen in the Sawtooths Mountains region?
The Sawtooth Mountains Region boasts diverse wildlife including black bears, mountain lions, grizzly bears, elk, mule deer, varied bird species as well as moose, among others. Visitors should remain vigilant and remain at safe distances when encountering wildlife and refrain from leaving food or items that can attract bears nearby. Show more
