Idaho hiking

“Does anyone know anything about Germania Creek, Four Lakes Basin and Chamberlain Basin in the Sawtooths in Idaho? Trip planning season has arrived and I am thinking of that area. Thanks”

“Those areas are in the White Cloud Peaks, across the Salmon River from the 'Tooths. They are apart of the Sawtooth NRA, tho.

I've hiked just west of Chamberlain, etc, from the Fourth of July Greek trailhead. I did a two niter with the Friendly Ranger in '01, as well as a daylong cleanup excursion around Six Lakes Basin and Heart Lake.

Our two niter took us past 4th'o July Lake and over the pass into Antz Basin. We rerouted a couple miles of trail there. Antz is separated from Four Lakes by the formidable Patterson Peak.

I'd give the area high marks in every catagory. Fishing is good, hikes are moderate to strenuous, and the scenery is awesome. Bears are present, but shy. I'm not sure of the current status of the local wolf packs. Mountain lions, elk, bighorn, and goats be there. Muleys abound, naturally...

The area ranges from treeline to rock, with most of the travel area being alpine. Summer brings forth a rainbow of colorful flowers.

Use is moderate. You'll see someone everyday, unless you hole-up somewhere. Trails are well maintained, and crosscountry hiking is doable within the basins. Crossing passes pretty much requires the trails, tho.

Trailheads are well dispersed along Hwy 75 from dang near Galena Summit to Clayton. Stanley has most all you'll need as in "last minute" (except a "Sawtooth" patch - lol!). Burgers and beers, too (for that post hike celebration!).

I did another hike with TFR the previous year. We did a multi-niter in the Sawtooth Wilderness, and we were in company of a cheesehead ranger named Dave...”

“I've hiked from 4th of July trailhead to the ridge looking down into Chamberlain basin, and its a beautiful area, but a long hike. I have heard that four lakes basin is a must see, very good fishing and lightly visited.

How many days were you going to be out? I think those trips are best suited to 4 or more days, rather than 2-3 day trips. Lots of good places in the Sawtooths and Pioneers also.”

“when are you doing your Sawtooth trip, I was planning on going out this summer and have at least a topo of the area”

“We usually go in mid August. We go for 7 to 9 days.”

“Keep me informed of the dates, and I might try to join you. The 4 lakes basin is one I'd like to do, and Germania Creek would be new to me.”

“got room for one more, and is there a chance to do it near to or the last of August , I have commitment in California the last of July, also I would be flying into Boise and renting a car if needed”