Alpine Way Trail

Alpine Way Trail (#528) is a long-distance hike in Idaho’s Sawtooth National Recreation Area, running through the Sawtooth Wilderness. The route is built as a point-to-point line on foot and is surfaced as ground along the way.

The trail connects the Redfish Lake Trailhead to the Iron Creek Trailhead near Stanley. A one-way push is commonly planned around a half-day to full-day effort only if you break the hike into sections; otherwise it’s a true multi-day backpacking line.

Expect moderate-to-challenging terrain with sustained climbing and a broad elevation range. The commonly cited one-way elevation gain is about 1,500–2,000 feet, with elevations ranging from about 6,409 to 8,063 feet.

Typical usage includes hiking, backpacking, and camping. Several parts of the line dip into the Sawtooth Wilderness, so you’ll be dealing with wilderness-specific rules rather than standard trailhead etiquette.

Plan around wilderness permit requirements: self-administered, free wilderness permits are required and available at the trailhead. Regulations can also affect pets and where you can camp or cook, since restrictions vary by drainage and lake.

Dogs are allowed with seasonal leash requirements (notably between June 1 and Labor Day). Campfires are restricted to backcountry pans or fire blankets, and campfire prohibition areas can apply around certain lakes and drainages.

More information: Trail Spotlight: Alpine Way, Iron Creek - Stanley Lake and Alpine Way Trail