Enchantments through hike map 5 miles total, 6,200 feet elevation gain. The trail down the Core to the Snow lake route, was very challenging to find at times. A trip to the Core A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO THRU-HIKING THE ENCHANTMENTS TRAIL IN ONE DAY START. Thru-Hiking Culture. Washington Trails Association 705 2nd Ave, Suite 300 Seattle, WA 98104 (206) 625-1367. Contact Us. I likely would have been lost and in the dark. For us, it’s best hiking app on the market for tracking statistics and our live location using offline maps. 24. Ways Anyone have any suggestions on maps for the Enchantments through hike? I was at REI to pickup the Green Trails Maps 209s but wasn’t super impressed. 5-mile out-and-back trail near Leavenworth, Washington. The Enchantments — Washington Trails Association Use this map to explore the best hikes near Leavenworth, and read about them below! Leavenworth, Washington Sticker. For a full day hiking adventure explore Prusik Pass and across the Core Enchantment Basin to the top of Aasgard Pass. But, during my But if you’re not feeling up for the full-day, 20+ mile Enchantment hike, a day trip to Colchuck Lake is perfect. m. If you hope to backpack in the Enchantments, you’ll need a permit to camp between May 15th and October 31st. I coordinated this hike with friends to experience the Core Enchantments. LinseyH. If you have your sights set on experiencing the Enchantments but were unable to secure a permit, day hiking the trail is an option and totally doable. Considered the crown jewel of Washington's Alpine Lakes Wilderness and one of the top rated hikes in the entire state, the Enchantments through hike is an epic 18. If you have permits or your plans are just to visit parts of the enchantments and test out your gear/winter camping skills, then that is much more feasible than a thru-hike. >8000 feet elevation gain. Our hike clocked in at 19. Trail Conditions I ran through the Enchantments from Stuart Lakes Trailhead to Snow Lakes on a sunny Monday starting around 8:00 AM. Overview; Hike Finder Map; Hiking Guide; Trip Reports; Hiking by Season; Trail Smarts; Passes and Permits; Ranger Station Info; Youth Programs; Trail Work Parties; Get Involved. We did the Enchantments as a day hike three times, twice in August (‘20, ‘21) and once in September (‘23), always starting from the Stuart trailhead. On average, At the head of Perfection Lake, Snow Lake Trail ends and becomes Colchuck Lake Trail #1599. Facebook; Pinterest; Instagram; Get Trail News Subscribe to our free email newsletter for hiking events, news, gear reviews and more. Type of Hike Day hike. The Enchantments is a wildly popular hiking area and camping permits are difficult to get for most zones. Explore the most popular trails in my list The enchantments core hikes with hand-curated trail maps and lots of people. My wife and I hiked through from Stuart lake trailhead to snowlake trailhead. As is the case with almost all hikes in the Pacific Northwest, you need to wait for the snow to melt for this hike to be do-able. Lake Stuart TH to Snow Lake TH. Strong day hikers can focus on the Enchantments map. DO NOT COME UNPREPARED. Permit sales end at 4 p. Then follow the Here’s a collection of the best day hikes in the Enchantments, trailhead access points and permit information. Considering the level of difficulty, I was surprised to see hikers of all ages making the trek to Colchuck Lake. Early on August 10th, 2019 we arrived at the Stuart Lake Trailhead. The descent is not a simple, Currently, approximately 70% of overall use in the Enchantments is by day hikers, said Victoria Wilkins, a public affairs officer with the Forest Service, in an email. For a full breakdown of the path, with maps, pictures, and mountain climbing suggestions, learn half 1: The way to Hike the Enchantments in One Day. These are issued by a lottery system, however, and they are hard to come by. ) The hike through Detailed Topo Map of Enchantment Permit Area However, this day hiking through the Enchantments is very strenuous for MOST hikers. It will make you feel like you're in a completely different world. Detailed Topo Map of Enchantment Permit Area However, this day hiking through the Enchantments is very strenuous for MOST hikers. gov We strongly believe that you want to hike this trail from the Stuart Lake Trailhead, ending at the Snow Lakes Trailhead. General overview map of Enchantment Permit Area. Follow the trail to Colchuck Lake. It’s a grueling 18-mile hike, but you’ll see the best of the Enchantments in one day! Enchantment Zones. Most day hikers continue through the Enchantments on a through hike (~18 miles RT) to finish at the Snow Lake TH (See “Day Hike the Enchantments” adventure). MINS. 66 miles. My trips on the Enchantments thru hike in this otherworldly landscape were all approximately 18 miles, 4500 feet gain going The rugged and beautiful Enchantment Permit Area is contained within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness in the Cascade Mountains of Washington State. You can do the Enchantments hike as a thru-hike in one day. We recorded our Enchantments hike using our Gaia GPS Premium app. Others find that the climb from Snow Lake to Lake Viviane, or from Colchuck Lake to the top of Experience this 24. Because of the distance and difficulty required to reach the core zone, people attempting a hike through the area usually opt to apply for an overnight camping permit. Trip Report By. 17, 2019. A lottery is held between February and March each year, but if you don’t win by applying there, you can try to get an online walk-up permit, The Enchantments Thru-Hike is possibly the most famous hike in you have barely a 1% chance of getting a permit. I'm a very fit, capable guy. According to AllTrails, the Enchantments Monday July 9, 2021 Enchantments through hike. The first lake we came upon was Tranquil Lake, a small and appropriately named lake just pass the Pass. Report an issue. Use our guide to research what you need. Many people resort to conquering the 21-mile Enchantments Trail hike in one day because they were unable to secure an overnight permit. The route to Colchuck Lake is the easiest and most popular way for people to see the glorious Enchantments. Detailed Topo Map of Enchantment Permit Area Core Enchantment, and Snow Lake Zones in a single 20 mile day hike. Backpackers who complete the Snoqualmie - Stevens segment of the Pacific Crest Trail will hike through some of the most remote and diverse mountain country along the entire 2650-mile trail. While backpacking the trail is the ultimate goal and I encourage everyone to keep The Enchantments is a challenging hike. The Backpacker and Hiker Gift Guide: Under $150 Nov 11th : The In 2024, I attemped WA PCT Section J, and hiked the Enchantments and Mt. Starting at either end hike through forest to gain the 7,000-foot plateau. 10 essentials (and more) for a day hike through the Enchantments. Otherwise, hiking through the Enchantments means covering those 18 miles in one grueling day, with 4,500 feet of elevation The 19 mile thru-hike in a day was brutal, but with such stunningly unique terrain, fall larches and mountain goats a-plenty, the miles were more enjoyable. Be prepared to share the trail with hundreds of people; this is an extremely popular route, Contact Us. Helens — and the Enchantments thru-hike is nearly twice the distance with more elevation gain and loss. How to Use This Map: The best hike to do in the Enchantments is the thru-hike of the Core Enchantments. Hiking the Enchantments is one of the most memorable PNW experiences. Wrong distance shows on map. It is managed according to the In addition to about 8-10 hours of general aerobic exercise a week and some strength training, be sure to take day hikes on weekends, progressively longer and more challenging (8-15 miles) over a couple months leading up within 1-2 weeks before your Enchantments day hike. A narrow trail led through the boulders and the meadows through the Enchantment basin. On average, An extraordinary run that takes you through all of the beauty that the Enchantments have to offer! Near Leavenworth, This trail can be done as a run-hike, Enchantments Through run w/ Prusik Pass Link-Up 20. Spirits Explore the most popular trails in my list Stuart Zone Enchantments with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. SALE ENDS SOON! DISCOUNT ON ALL PRO+ FEATURES. After my epic but tragically short Enchantments hike, I learned some valuable lessons and had many questions answered. The Enchantments is split into five Map of the area. On average, Day Hiking the Enchantments Trail. Off-trail, I am a professional classical singer/voice teacher, though you might not believe that if I ran through the Enchantments from Stuart Lakes Trailhead to Snow Lakes on a sunny Monday starting around 8:00 AM. In this article, we share with you everything you need to know to thru-hike the Enchantments in one day, from what to expect, how to arrange your transportation, what to The Enchantment Lakes are an alpine wonderland of pristine lakes set among polished granite, soaring peaks, blazing larches, and ambling mountain goats. From competing in swimming at the Olympic Trials to leading wilderness expeditions, she has honed her skills on diverse terrains and in Technically, I suppose you could call the hike from the Snow Lakes Trailhead through the Enchantments and down Aasgard Pass another version, but it’s hardly in the same category since that involves 20 miles or so and a LONG climb. The trail is marked with mile markers (miles traveled and miles remaining) and the elevation at that mile marker. By downloading this map you acknowledge and accept the following contract. Please be advised: while heavily-trafficked, the trail beyond Upper Snow Lake to the Core Enchantments is a primitive route marked with rock cairns, and is recommended only for experienced hikers. Type of Hike The most popular are those in the Enchantment Lakes basin southwest of Leavenworth in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. The Enchantments, Little Annapurna — Saturday, Aug. The Enchantments are monitored closely by Rangers, and they The 18-mile trail through the Enchantment Lakes, up to the high alpine at almost 8,000 feet above sea level, is perhaps the state's most infamous and beloved route. The most popular way to cover The Enchantments is with an 18-mile hike, starting at the Stuart Lake Trailhead. (Here’s our 10% discount for Gaia if you’re interested. It’s actually 32km from parking recommend doing it as a day hike unless you are a trail runner or a very experienced hiker and you do not mind quickly hiking through the Core Zone Distance (Thru-Hike): 20. A long, strenuous day hike or backpack through one of the most beautiful alpine settings on earth, The Enchantments in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. You can vary the distance of The Enchantments thru hike takes you through 4 out of 5 zones (skipping Eightmile/Caroline Zone altogether). The trail meanders through a moonscape of granite, winding between crystal blue lakes and tumbling streams. About 2 miles in, you come to a Y section with trail signs on a tree - Colchuck Lake/Stuart Lake. This contract contains a binding Backcountry (or wilderness) permits, like those issued for backpacking in national parks or quota areas like the Enchantments, along the Wonderland Trail or Mount St. However, since there are different trailheads that are 30 mins apart by car, you need to arrange some Explore the most popular trails in my list The Enchantments with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well walk just a tiny bit further and cross through the fallen trees to grab a rock but if you’re doing the out and back don’t go too much further as it’ll add on time to your hikes and that leads to the enchantment After my epic but tragically short Enchantments hike, I learned some valuable lessons and had many questions answered. Hike Finder Map; Hiking Guide; Trip Reports; Hiking by Season; Trail Smarts; Passes and Permits; Ranger Station Info; Youth Programs; Trail Work Parties; Get Involved. The trail runs through the forest and you hike along a creek for the first half and cross two log bridges. During my research, I routinely came across When is the Best Time for Hiking the Enchantments? The best time to go hiking in the Enchantments is mid-July through early October. USGS Map - Cashmere Mountain/Enchantment Lakes/Mount Stuart, WA. filted an additional 50 oz on top of the original 75 oz I started with, Hike Finder Map; Hiking Guide; Trip Reports; Big effort, big reward! My goal was to hike to the Enchantments and explore as much as I could for a day hike. Turquoise, emerald, and aquamarine alpine lakes are scattered through the jagged, snow-capped mountain peaks. More than a dozen high alpine lakes carved in granite. I cover how to apply for permits, parking, shuttle services, what to expect, what to pack, and how to Wander through soft tundra meadows, glacial-cirque lakes, crystal clear trickling streams, and impossible granite rock formations in the heart of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Check out this sticker from Wild Life Design Co. to 4:30 p. Include a scramble up to Enchantment Peak (via Prusik Pass) or up to Little Annapurna (above Inspiration lake) for an added adventure! To see a map of these lakes and peaks, check out REI for a green trails map of the Enchantments. Keep reading Best time of year to day hike through the Enchantments. The Enchantments Traverse (same trail + route as described here) is one of Washington's most famous and popular trail runs, and sounds like an awesome way to pack in all of the beauty Definitely dangerous trail conditions. 4mi — 7h 06m Jul 3, 2017 Ben Stephens. The Enchantments! Washington's "crown jewel"! This magical hike deserves all of the hype (the area is literally named after how beautiful it is), but the buildup Although thru hiking the Enchantments is the ultimate larch march, any hike featuring larch trees counts! Just want the hike suggestions? Click here to jump to them This map also shows when fall colors are anticipated to Through-hiking the Enchantments in one day will challenge and reward you, but it’s not for everyone. Did the Hiking through the stunning basins, lakes, and peaks known collectively as the Enchantments is to experience the Alpine Lakes Wilderness at its best. Located in Leavenworth, Washington, th Explore the most popular trails in my list Enchantment Thru Training Hike with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed View full map. There are no distance markers or anything that gives you an indication of how far you’ve hiked on the Enchantments Trail. When you reach the top at 7,800’, take in views of Dragontail Peak above you, Colchuck Lake behind you, and the gateway to the Core Enchantments ahead of you. Base map courtesy of the USDA Forest Service. We got super lucky with weather for this experience, nice, clear sky without Is the Enchantments Hike Hard? The Enchantments hike is definitely hard since it is an 18-mile point-to-point trail near Leavenworth, Washington. This map shows the Enchantments thru hike from Mountaineer's Creek to the Snow Lake parking area. One of the lesser-visited lakes in the Enchantments, the trail ascends steadily through a burn area before entering the Alpine Lakes Wilderness at 1 mile. Colchuck Lake is gorgeous in morning and evening. Option 2: hike it all in 1 day. Here’s the common wisdom on what to pack. gcamp94. On average, people with overnight packs will take 3 or 4 hours Hiking the Enchantments Trail? Check out our interactive map, full list of hostels, hotels, campgrounds, b&bs and much more along the trail from Leavenworth, Washington “Embark on a majestic yet demanding trek through the Upper Enchantments to Lake Viviane After the crest of Aasgard pass, the trail thankfully flattens out, and here begins what I consider to be the most enjoyable and breathtaking part of the hike. Ambitious day hikers will be richly rewarded for tackling all 20 miles in a day. Hikers traverse the Enchantment Lakes with everything from full backpacks to running vests holding only water and an InReach. 8-21 miles Elevation: 5280 feet of gain, 7200 of Elevation Loss (starting at Stuart Lake) or 7200 gain and 5280 loss (starting at Snow Lakes) Type: Point to Point, Thru The Enchantments At A Glance. However, this day hiking through the Enchantments is very strenuous for MOST hikers. Others find that the climb from Snow Lake to Lake Viviane, or from Colchuck Lake to the top of Hikers say it takes 12 to 14 hours! You can do this hike two different directions: start at Colchuck Lake Trailhead and end at Snow Lake Trail Head, or the opposite. With 2,300 feet of elevation gain, reaching Colchuck Lake takes some perseverance, but it’s doable. Round trip mileage: 18 miles Elevation gain: 6,500 It is imperative hikers and backpackers evaluate their comfort and ability in various environments when choosing their route, as many hikes are strenuous and somewhat primitive, while others offer easier climbs. Widely regarded as the crown jewel of hiking in Washington, this trail exceeds Everything you need to know to successfully thru-hike The Enchantments in one day! Includes detailed trail information, what to wear, how to pack, and pro tips to make sure your hike goes smoothly. I did this as a day hike/thru hike with my GF. 15 Many people with Core permits will start their journey by camping at Colchuck or Snow Lake the first night, then push up to the Core for the remaining days/nights. The Snow Lakes trail is the longer half of the Enchantments thru-hike. This guide will cover the most popular route through The Enchantments, starting from the Stuart Lake Trailhead, over Aasgard Pass, through the Core Enchantment Zone, and down to the Snow Lakes Trailhead. The washboard road to get there was brutal. 1, which continues through the Upper Enchantments. HOURS. 6, 2016. When are backcountry permits released for the Enchantment area? Beginning February 15, 2022, 7:00 am (PT) and ending March 1, 2022, 11:59 pm (PT), 75% of the total permits are issued by reservation through an online lottery at recreation. Forest Service. The challenging 20-mile trail requires advanced planning, so we’ve broken it down in a comprehensive Enchantments trail guide. I recommend downloading the AllTrails map before beginning. We’ve got hiking recommendations for each zone below. 1 Miles 30. The Core Enchantments Zone is where all of the alpine lakes above the tree line are located, providing stunning views and a great opportunity for a cold plunge. Previous Post . The most common way to complete the The most popular way to cover The Enchantments is with an 18-mile hike, starting at the Stuart Lake Trailhead. A hard-to-acquire permit is required to camp in any of the area's five zones, with the Enchantment Core permit being the most desirable. I did the hike September 9th-11th, for reference. . A through hike is for bragging right only. Typing ‘Colchuck Lake Trailhead’ into Google Maps typically works, but if you have trouble finding it Monday July 9, 2021 Enchantments through hike. " "They're just pretty. To get through the Enchantments, you need to cross Aasgard Pass, which climbs roughly 1,500 feet in less than a An extraordinary hike that takes you through all of the beauty that the Enchantments have to offer! Near Leavenworth, Map Key Favorites Check-Ins. Suddenly, laid out beneath your feet are the icy waters of the lake — deep blue in the shade, bright aquamarine in sunlight — while high above you at the far end of the lake, the twin spires of Dragontail and Colchuck Peaks seem to crowd out the very sky. No more need for two cars. The trail continues to climb steeply and gets really rocky and some sections have tree roots exposed. Technically, I suppose you could call the hike from the Snow Lakes Trailhead through the Enchantments and down Aasgard Pass another version, but it’s hardly in the same category since that involves 20 miles or so and a LONG climb. In and out the Stuart Lake trailhead is the way to go. When planning your next trip to Leavenworth to hike thru The Enchantments Lakes, Loop Connector Shuttle Service will make your trip that much easier by connecting the Snow Lakes parking lot and the Stuart Lake/Colchuck Lake trailhead. The most popular and highly recommended is to get the Core Zone permit, which means you can camp anywhere in the Maps Location. Other itineraries and side trips are possible. Off-trail, I am a professional classical singer/voice teacher, though you might not believe that if you hear me singing to The Enchantment Lakes in Washington's Alpine Lakes Wilderness are considered by many to be the premiere hiking destination in the entire Pacific Northwest. Start early at the Stuart Lake Trailhead and go through the core Enchantments and return the same way. We dropped off one car at the snow lake trail head and started the hike from Colchuck. There are four ways to hike The Enchantments. What is the Best Part of the Enchantments Trail? Overall Thoughts: Enchantments Hike and Lakes. 8 mile trek through a jaw-dropping mountain Final Thoughts on Hiking the Enchantments. Highest elevation point: 7800 feet Detailed Maps of Enchantments Permit Area: Enchantment Permit Area Historic Application Data: However, this day hiking through the Enchantments is very strenuous for MOST hikers. Because it is one of the most scenic areas in the Washington Cascades, many decide to take their time hiking this demanding route; thru-hiking is also an option, however, for those who wish to push their There is much debate about the difficulty of the Enchantments as a through hike, and it’s certainly a big day for all abilities, clocking in at around 32km Navigation is generally easy as the trail is well marked with cairns, though a map might be useful to The Enchantments, one of the most beautiful, most protected ecosystems in WA state. A Weekend in the Enchantments: 4 Peaks in a Row; Getting Back Into the Swing of Things: Triple Couloirs Car to Car; Enchanting Enchantments Adventure; South Face of Little Annapurna: An Unexpected Climb; A One-Day A narrow trail led through the boulders and the meadows through the Enchantment basin. The Enchantments — Friday, Sep. 14, 2023. on Etsy. There were quite a few mountain goats and I started climbing against traffic doing the normal through hike when I My wife and I hiked through from Stuart lake trailhead to snowlake trailhead. 7,795' 2,376 m Backpacking trip through the enchantments Sep 13, 2019 Jeremy Knopp. Permits are required for Day Hiking the Enchantments. Whew, did this hike catch up with me! The Enchantments Trail, nestled in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness of Chelan County, Washington, is a breathtaking journey through one of the most scenic areas in the Cascade. We will taxi you to the upper trailhea The Core Zone of the Enchantments may be one of the most popular destinations in Washington state, but those who venture to Lake Stuart may just get the extra-enchanting reward of relative solitude in a high traffic area. DAYS. Parked at Snow Lakes trailhead, hopped on the Leavenworth shuttle ($30), and started around 6:30 AM from Stuart Lake Trailhead. Reviews (54,345) Photos (99,634) 5: 4: 3: 2: The “core” part of the enchantments through Lake Vivianne before you descend towards Snow Lakes is very “nice The Enchantments is a classic Washington hike. Starting at Snow Lake Trail ads 2,000 feet of elevation gain to your hike. Vicinity Map of Enchantment Permit Area Zones Hours (through Dec. . Helens Backcountry to help regulate foot traffic in fragile environments. You will likely start your thru-hike at the Stuart Lake/Colchuk Lake Trailhead like we did. I already knew it was almost insane, though it’s possible, to make a round trip hike through the entire Enchantments trail (18 miles one way!) in a single day unless you do "thru-hike" by entering from one end exiting to the other. 17): Monday through Friday, 8:30 a. Central Cascades. The 2024 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Survey: General Information Part 2 In 2024, I attemped WA PCT Section J, and hiked the Enchantments and Mt. From the parking lot, stop by the posted map for any trail updates and to fill out a self-serve permit that Completing an Enchantments through-hike is not for the faint of heart or the inexperienced, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a taste of this increasingly popular Leavenworth destination. Others find that the climb from Snow Lake to Lake Viviane, or from Colchuck Lake to the top of Aasgard Pass, is simply too difficult for them to do. The reason is, basically, Aasgard Pass. I learned a lot about the permit process, gear choices, and how I would approach another trip differently. There are two ways to thru-hike the Enchantments Trail. Distance: Approximately 19 miles Difficulty: Extremely Difficult Total Elevation Gain: 5,000 feet Total Elevation Loss: 7,000 feet Highest Elevation (Aasgard Pass): 7,841 feet A Note On The Trail Distance: There is a lot of discrepancy in the distances reported for The Enchantments. For any day hikes into the Enchantments, you have Green Trail Map - #209S The Enchantments. The Enchantments trail can be hiked in the following two ways: Through hike – The Enchantments trail can be hiked as a very long day hike. In this complete guide, I highlight everything you need to know for either backpacking or day-hiking the Enchantments. The route traverses the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, and the trail passes by a least a dozen lakes along the way, many of them swimmable in late-summer. We started around 5am as it will be an extremely More than 6,000 feet of elevation are gained and 7,800 lost in the journey through the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. SECS. Sort by: Best. When deciding on thru-hiking the Enchantments for the first time, two things intimidated us – how steep Aasgard Pass is and the total distance of the hike. It is managed according to the Wilderness Management Plan and the 1964 Wilderness Act, to provide protection of fragile resources and preservation of wilderness Backcountry (or wilderness) permits, like those issued for backpacking in national parks or quota areas like the Enchantments, along the Wonderland Trail or Mount St. Cary has a lifelong passion for outdoor exploration, extensive backpacking experience, and a background in physical therapy and personal training. Everybody who sees them at this stage just falls in love," says Alan Yen, a member of the Washington Native Plant Society who once took an 18-mile day hike through the Enchantments to see the trees. 29, 2023. 19. Snow-covered for much of the year, it finally melts out mid The Enchantments Through-Hike: Start at Stuart Lake Trailhead. Just to say you did it. Find spectacular fall colors at these state parks, where you can stay in a campground, cabin or yurt: Wallace Falls State Park – Walk up the three-tiered Wallace Falls for dramatic season change!; Beacon Rock State Park – Our staff A baby mountain goat looks on as we traverse The Enchantments. As mentioned above, day hiking permits are unlimited, free, and self-registered at the trailhead. It’s a beautiful, highly sought after area, so there is tons of information out there about the Enchantments. close. I would not have made this alone, solo. We made it over Asgard pass encountering two feet of snow on the top third of the The Enchantments — Washington Trails Association The Colchuck Lake trail is a subsection of the Enchantments Trail. Facebook; Twitter; Pinterest; Instagram; Get Trail News Subscribe to our free email newsletter for hiking events, news, gear reviews and more. This is a great way to see a glimpse of the Enchantments. Hike through at the right time, and you may witness a huge plume of water shooting out over the rocks above Nada Lake from a massive tunnel bored to Snow Lake straight through the rock. Road Road Distance: Due to the amount of exploring off the beaten trail folks do while exploring the core enchantments, exact distance reports vary greatly - most range from 19 miles up to over 23. Starting from the usually-full parking lot, the trail begins switchbacking up the hill before The White River area near Lake Wenatchee offers miles of flaming trees and red huckleberry bushes on easy to strenuous hikes. I learned a lot about the permit process, gear choices, and how I would approach another trip The Enchantments Hike is the most beautiful hike in all of Washington. Snow and Nada Lakes are lack luster. Continue on the trail, through the woods, and appreciate the shade that the trees provide for a hot summer day. We passed kids as young as 6 as well as adults probably in their upper 70s. James Tammen. simpatico. The Core Enchantments is a majestic place and is worth the effort of doing once Explore the most popular trails in my list Olympic National Park - Enchanted Valley Trail with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. If you have multiple vehicles, The rugged and beautiful Enchantment Permit Area is contained within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness in the Cascade Mountains of Washington State. In the permit zone map above, you can see the 5 different zones for which you can get permits. ). In order to camp overnight at Colchuck Lake, Enchantments map and stats. The generally flat nature of the hiking in the basin was a welcome reprieve from the brutality of the climb to Aasgard Pass. As a part of the crescent shaped Stuart sub-Range, the Enchantment Lakes, Go Hiking Trip Reports The Enchantments The Enchantments Trip was 8/31 - 9/2, camped overnight at Snow Lake upper end, day hike to core, then back down to Snow Lake TH. Detailed trail description of the route from Snow Lakes trailhead to Enchantment Basin. Hiking the Enchantments is mesmerizing and truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Enchantments are one of the most beautiful and unspoiled places in Washington State. Detailed Maps of Enchantments Permit Area: Enchantment Permit Area Historic Application Data: However, this day hiking through the Enchantments is very strenuous for MOST hikers. Weather was a little precarious as the forecast called for heavy rains and thunderstorms. If you’re looking for an outstanding summer hiking experience, the best time to go is when the snow has melted off the trails but before the weather turns sour in fall. At the time, the most we’d hiked in a day was 12 miles — summiting Mount St. On average, people with overnight packs will take 3 or 4 hours by Cary Davis | Feb 14, 2023 | Thru-Hiking the Enchantments. Trail Conditions Trail in good condition. Buy the Green Trails Enchantments Map: Strava Map Core Enchantment Zone, U. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 15 h 12 min to complete. Difficulty: Extremely strenuous: recommended only for experienced hikers. S. In addition, the Enchantments hike is known as a highly challenging route and is recommended only for experienced adventurers. (The phrase “thru-hike” here specifically refers to hiking the whole trail in one day. Hike Finder Map; Hiking Guide; Trip Reports; Hiking by Season; Trail Smarts; Passes and Permits; The Enchantments — Saturday, Oct. I throughly loved this thru-hike. Did the through hike today. I have done hard day hikes and overnight hikes with nearly 40 lbs. The Trail Next Door; Trails Rebooted; Lost Trails Found; Connecting the Next Generation; About Us; Careers; WTA’s Commitment to Stand Against Racism; Go Outside. Enchantments Guide Planning Gear Picks Tips Trail Guide Map Get the App. Hike Finder Map; Hiking Guide; Trip Reports; Hiking by Season; Trail Smarts; The Enchantments Trip Report. Hike Finder Map; Hiking Guide; Trip Reports; Hiking by Season; Trail Smarts; Passes and Permits; Ranger Station Info; Enchantments thru hike. Thru Hiking Culture. Keep reading Completing an Enchantments through-hike is not for the faint of heart or the inexperienced, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a taste of this increasingly popular Leavenworth destination. Trail guides for hiking the Enchantments Snow Lakes TH. Otherwise, hiking through the Enchantments means covering those 18 miles in one grueling day, with 4,500 feet of elevation For a full day hiking adventure explore Prusik Pass and across the Core Enchantment Basin to the top of Aasgard Pass. We got super lucky with weather for this experience, nice, clear sky without Since the overnight permit is nearly impossible to acquire, a common workaround is to thru-hike the Enchantments. Writing a brief note. Closed for lunch from 12:30 to 1:15 p. The Eightmile Caroline Zone seems to be a bit of the ugly duckling. Map; Search for a Trail; Embed Enchantments Trail map into your website Explore the most popular trails in my list Enchantments Hiking with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you aren’t even a quarter of the way through at that point. Distance: 18. SALE ENDS SOON! Detailed Maps of Enchantments Permit Area: Enchantment Permit Area Historic Application Data: However, this day hiking through the Enchantments is very strenuous for MOST hikers. However, taking Contact Us. try thru hiking through four of the zones. Plus, it will cover side trips to the summit of Little Annapurna and Crystal Lake. While backpacking the trail is the ultimate goal and I encourage everyone to keep Embarked on the thru hike from Colchuck Lake to Snow Lake. If you don’t want to do the entire thru hike many people day hike to Colchuck Lake or into the core itself. Open comment sort options. Most hikers heading into the Enchantments use the Lake Stuart trailhead, but make for the Core zone via Colchuck Lake and Aasgard Pass. 21. Permits are required for day and overnight use in this area. Grateful to go in a group, I didn’t think it would be a problem to camp at Upper Snow Lake and hike into the Core Enchantments each day. Bottom line: Hikes longer than 15 miles and/or more than 4000 feet of elevation gain are good training hikes for through-hiking the Enchantment Basin. Honestly, the thru hike is NOT RECOMMENDED unless you are absolutely confident of your gear and abilities. The Enchantments Trail is 23. Started at 0510 from Colchuck trailhead, group of 5, finished at 1830. Thanks in advance Share Add a Comment. In this video, we provide a complete day hiking guide so you can complete the enchantm Hey everyone! Take a deep dive with me as I venture into The Enchantments Traverse, the most beautiful hike in the US. The route follows a peaceful stream through a lush forest, then climbs steeply to Colchuck Lake where the views of Dragontail Peak and Colchuck Peak won't disappoint. I have been through the Enchantments many times, always on day trips – a few climbs of Prusik If you look at a map of permit zones, the entire half of the Core Zone north of Prusik Pass sees very little The Enchantments Trail Hiking Guide. we definitely burned through a lot of water. Most Popular Day Hikes Enchantments Thu-hike. If you are planning to park at the trailhead (and not take the shuttle) then you will need a parking pass. At the head of Perfection Lake, Snow Lake Trail ends and becomes Colchuck Lake Trail #1599. Don’t get us wrong — it’s a strenuous hike, but we honestly think anyone who’s attempted other challenging hikes or The Grand Enchantment Trail is a route that goes from the Superstition Mountains outside of Phoenix, Arizona to the Sandia Mountains outside of Albuquerque, New Mexico. The best times to visit this trail are July through October. Rainier's Northern Loop. Fast Overview of the Path You may thru-hike the Enchantments (as a day hike) and not using a wilderness allow. We will taxi you to the upper trailhead and your car will be waiting for you at the The Enchantments are one of my favorite wilderness areas in the entire country, and I can't wait to go back to do this challenge - only running instead of hiking. 5mi A 12 hour 30 mile loop from Snow lake trail head up through the Enchantments. Stuart Lake TH. Survived, which was my goal. 5 miles / 33. You can either pay $5 to get a day pass (which you can do in person or online The first time you round the corner and come out of the trees at Colchuck Lake is something of a religious experience. Garmin The great thing about a round trip from Snow Creek Trailhead is spending more time in the Core Enchantments area, both climbing up and climbing down. 8 KM Point to Point. Those who are unable to apply for or secure camping permits months in advance choose this option. Final Thoughts on Hiking the Enchantments. Distance. Any of these is a good simulation of day hiking through the Enchantments: Mount Si, Permits. Hike Finder Map; Hiking Guide; Trip Reports; Hiking by Season; Trail Smarts; Passes and Permits; The Enchantments — Thursday, Oct. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the wilderness for future generations. Furthermore, in order to take your time and camp along the way, you’ll need an overnight Enchantments permit. Seeing the Core Enchantments was my main priority. 0 km Surrounded by towering peaks, pristine glacial lakes, and some of the most beautiful wilderness in the country, the Enchantments Traverse is, without a doubt, one of the best backcountry trips in the lower 48! That being said, this goes without saying tha Remember that a permit is required for day hikes and overnight trips in the Enchantments from May 15 to October 31, which are obtained through a lottery system due to the area's popularity. How Difficult is This Hike? Overall, I would put this hike somewhere between moderate and difficult. 5 miles long, so most people spend several days backpacking through the trail. Hitting the trail at 5am worked well for us to finish before dusk, a bit chilly to start and with headlamps for the first mile or two. This is a very popular area for backpacking, hiking, and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The start of the trail offers two options for pleasant and doable day trips and is our first pick for Leavenworth’s Best Hike. Wildflowers bloom along the edges of the trail and mountain goats graze on the grasses. Some of these permits are free, while others come with small fees. Option #4: Through hike to Trout Creek with multiple camps. It can be done as a thru-hike from west to east (5,425′ of total elevation gain with 7,516’ of loss), or east to west The Enchantments Trail, nestled in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness of Chelan County, Washington, is a breathtaking journey through one of the most scenic areas in the Cascade. chevron_right. Information to the Enchantments. dukpmtk lqwv dadnnrtq euled tiypmzr rgeu sktygn frb xolxs yswhok