Sawtooth Wilderness

Idaho's Sawtooth Range delivers world-class alpine scenery without the Wyoming crowds. Jagged granite peaks, over 300 mountain lakes, and wilderness that stretches to every horizon. The trails are excellent, the fishing is legendary, and you'll camp in basins that look like they belong in Switzerland. The Sawtooths teach alpine skills without the pressure of famous destinations - you can make mistakes, learn, adapt. It's slightly less expensive than Wyoming, more accessible for experimental routes, and absolutely stunning. This is where you take crews who proved themselves in Tier 2 and deserve something spectacular before tackling the Tetons.