Overview
Grand Mogul rises prominently above Redfish Lake, its rocky summit visible from the recreation area below. The 8-mile round-trip ascent is shorter in distance than many Sawtooth classics but compensates with 2,800 feet of concentrated gain, a strenuous upper ridge, and a summit that rewards the effort with one of the finest panoramas in the central Sawtooths.
The view from the top encompasses Redfish Lake directly below (one of the most dramatic overhead perspectives of any lake in the forest), the White Cloud Peaks to the east, the Stanley Basin to the north, and the mass of the Sawtooth Range stretching south. On clear mornings before the haze of summer sets in, the view extends in every direction to distant ridgelines.
The route is less traveled than the standard Redfish Lake Loop and significantly less visited than the Iron Creek trails, making it possible to have the summit to yourself even in the heart of summer. Most visitors to the Redfish area stick to the lakeshore, which leaves the upper terrain quiet.
Grand Mogul is accessed from the Redfish Lake area, which charges a $5 day-use fee (as of 2026). Veterans with the Military Annual Pass cover this fee with their pass. Learn more about veteran benefits in national forests.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.0: Inlet Trail to Base
The trail begins at the Redfish Lake inlet trailhead and initially follows the inlet trail toward the southern side of the lake. At roughly mile 1.5, a signed junction marks the turn toward Grand Mogul. The initial climbing begins here, leaving the lakeshore trail and gaining altitude through open forest on the flanks of the peak.
The lower section is steep but the trail is distinct and well-worn. Engelmann spruce and whitebark pine thin out as the trail climbs, and views of the lake below begin to open by mile 2.
Miles 2.0 to 3.5: The Sustained Climb
This section is the heart of the route, gaining the bulk of the elevation through a series of switchbacks and direct ascents on rocky terrain. The trail becomes less formal above the treeline, marked by cairns and worn rock. Route-finding is manageable in good visibility.
The views of Redfish Lake from the upper slopes are striking: the lake's blue-green surface appears far below, framed by forest, with the town of Stanley visible in the distance to the north.
Miles 3.5 to 4.0: Summit Ridge and Top
The final approach involves Class 2-3 scrambling on granite blocks and loose talus to reach the summit. The rock is solid in most places but some sections have loose material that requires careful testing before weighting. The summit platform is small, with a register box and room for a few hikers to sit comfortably.
When to Visit
Late July through September for the summit attempt. The lower trail can be hiked earlier, but the upper ridge holds snow late due to its northward aspect and shaded terrain. Afternoon thunderstorms are a consistent concern in July and August; plan to reach the summit by mid-morning.
What to Bring
Many hikers on this route carry:
- 2-3 liters of water capacity; the lower trail has sources but the upper ridge has none
- A water filter for the lower creek crossings
- Wind and rain layers for the exposed summit
- Trekking poles for the steep lower sections
- Sturdy boots with ankle support; trail runners are not ideal on loose summit talus
- Sun protection
Individual water and gear needs vary. This is a demanding route and conditions can change quickly.
Practical Details
No wilderness permit is required as of 2026. The Redfish Lake Recreation Area $5 day-use fee applies (as of 2026). Dogs are not recommended. Cell service is limited near the recreation area and absent on the upper trail.
Leave No Trace principles are especially important near the heavily used Redfish Lake area. Pack out all waste and stay on established trails in the lower section.
Check current conditions with the Sawtooth NRA before visiting, particularly for fire restrictions and road conditions.
Getting There
From Stanley, drive south on Highway 75 approximately 5 miles to Redfish Lake Road. Turn right (west) and drive to the recreation area entrance. The inlet trailhead is at the far south end of the lake road, past the main campground. The $5 day-use fee is collected at the entrance station. Total drive from Stanley is approximately 30 minutes.