Middle and Upper Cramer Lake & waterfall

The hike to Middle and Upper Cramer Lake and the waterfall is a significant undertaking. From the Redfish Lake area, the round-trip distance is approximately 15 miles with about 2,000 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers plan for a full day, typically 8-12 hours, to complete the trek, allowing time to enjoy the scenery. Many choose to make it a multi-day backpacking trip to fully explore the area and camp overnight.

While incredibly rewarding, the hike to Middle and Upper Cramer Lake is considered challenging due to its length (15 miles round-trip) and significant elevation gain (2,000 feet). The terrain is rugged, characteristic of the Sawtooth Wilderness. It is not generally recommended for beginners unless they are in good physical condition and prepared for a strenuous day. Less experienced hikers might consider shorter, less demanding trails in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area first.

Yes, the Sawtooth Wilderness, including the trails to Middle and Upper Cramer Lake, is generally dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, which includes packing out all pet waste. Be aware of potential wildlife encounters and ensure your dog is well-behaved around other hikers and animals.

Absolutely! While the Middle and Upper Cramer Lakes and their connecting waterfall are the main attractions, the surrounding basin offers much more. Keep an eye out for smaller tarns like Laury Tarn, which are exceptionally scenic. The rugged mountain spires, including peaks like The Temple and Mount Cramer, provide dramatic backdrops. Beyond Upper Cramer Lake, the trail continues towards Cramer Divide, offering magnificent views and groves of wind-weathered white-bark pines, especially beautiful during golden hour.

Access to the Cramer Lakes basin typically begins from the Redfish Lake area near Stanley, Idaho. Hikers often start from the Redfish Lake Lodge parking area. Parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak summer months and on weekends. Arriving early in the morning, ideally before 8 AM, is highly recommended to secure a spot and avoid delays. Alternatively, taking a water taxi across Redfish Lake can shorten the initial trek and reduce parking concerns at the trailhead.

Winter conditions at Middle and Upper Cramer Lake are extremely challenging. The area receives heavy snowfall, making trails impassable for most hikers without specialized gear. Access roads may be closed, and avalanche danger can be significant. Only experienced winter backcountry travelers with appropriate equipment (snowshoes, skis, avalanche gear) and knowledge should attempt to visit during winter. The best time to visit for most is during the summer months when trails are clear of snow.

Yes, wild swimming is a popular activity in the pristine alpine waters of the Cramer Lakes. The clear, cold waters offer a refreshing dip after a long hike. Middle Cramer Lake, in particular, is known for its inviting shores. Always be mindful of the cold temperatures, even in summer, and practice Leave No Trace principles by not using soaps or lotions in the lake and respecting the delicate alpine environment.

The Sawtooth Wilderness is home to diverse wildlife. Hikers might encounter various bird species, marmots, pikas, and deer. Larger mammals such as elk, moose, and black bears also inhabit the area. While sightings of larger animals are less common, it's crucial to be bear-aware. Always carry bear spray, know how to use it, and store all food in bear-safe containers or hung from a tree to protect both yourself and the wildlife.

The primary access point for the Cramer Lakes is the Redfish Lake area, near Stanley, Idaho. Stanley offers several amenities, including lodges, cabins, restaurants, and small shops where you can find basic supplies and meals. Redfish Lake Lodge itself has dining options and accommodation. However, once you leave the Redfish Lake area and enter the wilderness, there are no commercial services, so plan to be self-sufficient for your hike.

The Cramer Lakes are part of a chain of three glacial lakes, indicating their formation through geological processes over time. They are classic examples of alpine lakes carved by glaciers during past ice ages. The waterfall connecting Upper and Middle Cramer Lake is a result of the natural cascading effect as water flows through this glacial basin. The Sawtooth Wilderness, where these lakes reside, is the ancestral and unceded territory of the Agaidika, Dukudeka, and other bands of today's Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, highlighting a long history of human connection to this landscape.