The Enchantments

Leavenworth, Washington

Description

The Enchanted Lakes trail offers something for everyone. Whether you're doing a through hike or have several days to spend up there, you won't be disappointed. Stunning views, swimming holes, and curious goats abound. For those with a little more time, there are several amazing scrambles in the upper basin as well as several super classic multi-pitch trad routes in the area.

You can begin your adventure at either Icicle Creek or Lake Stuart. If you choose the former, you'll begin to slowly gain else again as you head up the switchbacks, eventually hitting Snow Lake. Keep climbing, following the obvious trail until you hit Temple Lake which signals your entrance into the upper basin. Once there, take as much time as possible to enjoy the raw beauty as you move through the core zone. You'll eventually hit Aasgard, a steep, rocky descent to the turquoise waters of Lake Colchuk. Stop here for a swim and the stunning views before descending to the Lake Stuart trailhead.

It's usually pretty easy to hitch a ride back to your car from there unless you stashed a second car or bike!

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Features

Rock Climbing

Chillin

Camping

Fishing

Backpacking

Hiking

Adult Beverages

Bathrooms

Forest

Lake

River

Romantic

Scenic

Waterfall

Wildlife

Swimming Hole

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Scramble to the Summit of Dragontail Peak

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Hike to Lake Stuart

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Hike to the Enchantments' Horseshoe Lake

Aasgard Pass via Stuart Lake Trail

“These fleetingly rare sights offer a recipe for what I call ‘the Quest.’ The Quest is the force that motivates us to travel. It’s putting oneself in the perfect place at the perfect time. It’s the insatiable urge to find that quintessential moment.” - Washington AAA Journal The arrival of “golden week” at Colchuck Lake and Aasgard Pass trail inspired my husband and me to set out on a “larch m...

Colchuck Lake via Stuart Lake Trail

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Climb to the Summit of Colchuck Peak

Getting There: From US2 in Leavenworth, Washington, turn onto Icicle Creek Rd. Drive 8.2 miles and turn left on Forest Service Road 7601—you might be able to spot it more easily as the turnoff for the Bridge Creek Campground. In 3.7 miles, you'll arrive at the Stuart Lake Trailhead parking lot; while it might seem sizable, remember that it will fill up quickly on weekends. Restrooms are availab...