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R J

08/09/17

I've been to several lakes in the Sawtooth mountains and this is a favorite. The hike to Hell roaring is mostly flat, and to Imogene is a modest climb. Took about 3hrs 20 min from lower trailhead. Even if you see lots of hikers (likely), there are ample camping spots with relative solitude. I'll be back for sure.

I started at Norton Lakes. Up and over from there to these lakes wasn't too strenuous. Took about 3-ish hrs to go from Norton to Miner to Prairie. There's definitely some climbing but not excessive. Beginner to intermediate. Good peak views from Norton Pass and leaving Prairie Lake.

This took about 2.5 hrs out and back. Not much elevation gain. Lots of exposure in the hot parts of the day. Slightly busy on the weekend. Spectacular views of some jagged peaks.

4 stars only because the trail was very busy. The valley views and lake backed by beautiful mountains were 5 star. On a Sunday we passed at least twenty people on the trail and there were a dozen more day-use people at the lake. Solitude was best had early in the morning and at night. There are probably less used trails nearby. The trail is listed as beginner but with a 30 pound pack it felt at least moderate. The road was very rough, even in a high clearance vehicle.