Alpine Way Trail, Fishhook Creek to Iron Creek

This 12-mile section of the Alpine Way Trail sees quite a bit of traffic at either end. Most hikers peel off to access Goat Lake from the Iron Creek Trailhead or Profile Lake (beneath Thompson Peak) and Marshall Lake from the Fishhook terminus. It is also the primary access to climb Thompson Peak, Williams Peak, or Peak 10,084. Hiking the trail from point-to-point is less common, but it is a nice option when early-season trails are closed by snow in the high country.
   

It is probably best to make the traverse from Fishhook to Iron Creek to take advantage of the early morning light on the stunning vistas from the northern Fishhook moraine. The middle portion of the trail between Marshall Lake and Goat Falls is an interesting study in forestry as it travels through a variety of different aspects and forest types. The frontal view of Goat Falls while descending into Iron Creek is a nice reward for the time spent in the woods. Overall, the trip provides some great views and a different perspective into much of the Thompson Peak region. One stream crossing at Goat Creek may require removing your shoes to stay dry.

Wilderness Regulations:

Most of the trail lies within the Sawtooth Wilderness. Please observe the following  regulations:
• Mountain bikes are not allowed past the wilderness boundary.
• Self administered wilderness permits are required and available at the trailhead.
• Dogs must be on a leash between July 1 and Labor Day.
• Camp 100 feet from trails, lakes and streams.
• Pack out all garbage.
• Human waste should be buried and well disguised in a cat hole 6 to 8 inches deep. Pack out all toilet paper.
• Campfires allowed ONLY in a backcountry pan or fire blanket.
• Campfires are NOT allowed at some lakes and in some drainages in the Sawtooths. Please review the campfire restrictions at individual trailheads.
• Permits required for all stock use in the wilderness. No grazing allowed in the Salmon River watershed (This includes the Alpine Lake drainage).
• No equine stock at Edith Lake. ALL stock prohibited in the Goat Creek and Alpine Creek (Alturas Lake) drainages.