I’m looking for beta for a summer 2026 backpacking trip out west and have thought about doing a loop in the Sawtooths – perhaps the “Grand Sawtooth Loop” and modifying it a bit. I’m looking to see if it’s suitable for what I want – big alpine country with lots of time at or above treeline without too many people. I’m also stuck into the first week of August so it needs to be somewhere that won’t be scorching hot that time of year and I won’t be carried away by mosquitos.
I’m looking for a week trip but some of the trip goals will depend on whether I go solo or if my dad goes with me. Solo I would be OK with some class 2 off trail travel if it makes since and probably 80-100 miles total. If my dad goes I probably want 60-70 miles and no off trail travel.
What are the must-see spots in the Sawtooths that I should be sure to include in the trip? Any areas I should avoid?
I assume flying into Boise is the best option – what’s the best trailhead from there Grandjean?
Bear Can or Ursack?
I’m also looking at … (if you think one of them makes more sense)
The Wonderland Trail (If I get a permit)
Wallowa’s
Trinity Alps
High Sierra
Other?
Here’s what I done in the past (for reference)
John Muir Trail (2011)
Wind River High Route (Alan Dixon version) Sobo (2018)
Southern Sierra High Route (2020)
Rocky Mountain National Park Loop (on trail) (2013)
Pecos Wilderness Loop (on trail) (2015)
Alaska Brooks Range (off trail) (2015)
Alaska Wrangell St. Elias “Southern Traverse” (off trail) (2017)
Wind River Hight Route (Alan Dixon version) Nobo (2019)
Teton Crest Trail (2022)
Uinta Highline Trail (2025)
