Sawtooth Lake

In the West Pioneer Mountains near Polaris, the hike to Sawtooth Lake is a great adventure for all ages. The well-maintained trail follows Clark Creek through the area burned in the 2003 Hidden Lake Fire, which is now home to colorful wildflowers, young lodgepole pines, and plenty of wildlife. It soon moves back into wooded terrain and begins to climb, before you suddenly emerge on the banks of Sawtooth Lake. The flanks of the surrounding peaks are reflected in the lake’s crystal clear waters, and several established campsites provide wonderful places to while away a sunny summer afternoon. Photo by Bruce Catter