Colchuck Lake Stuart Lake Trailhead
A challenging 8-mile hike to a stunning turquoise alpine lake in Washington's Enchantments, offering breathtaking views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Colchuck Lake Stuart Lake Trailhead
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging 8-mile hike to a stunning turquoise alpine lake in Washington's Enchantments, offering breathtaking views.
"The turquoise water with beautiful mountains in the background feels unreal—like something out of a postcard."
🚗 Parking Lot Fills Early
Arrive before 6 AM to guarantee a parking spot at the Stuart Lake Trailhead.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The last 2 miles are steep and rocky; good footwear is essential for this challenging section.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colchuck Lake's Turquoise Waters
Alpine Lake
Experience the breathtaking, crystal-clear turquoise water of this alpine lake, nestled beneath towering peaks.
Dragontail Peak Views
Overlooking the lake
Marvel at the majestic Dragontail Peak, providing a dramatic and stunning backdrop to the serene lake.
Mountain Goat Sightings
Near the lake
Keep an eye out for adorable mountain goats that often frequent the area, adding a wild encounter to your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Start Your Hike Early
+1Gear Up for a Challenging Trek
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Lot Fills Early
Arrive before 6 AM to guarantee a parking spot at the Stuart Lake Trailhead.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The last 2 miles are steep and rocky; good footwear is essential for this challenging section.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Carry more water than you think you'll need, or bring a water filter for the journey. +1
📸 Capture the Views
The turquoise water and mountain vistas are incredibly photogenic, especially in the morning light.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Lot Fills Early
Arrive before 6 AM to guarantee a parking spot at the Stuart Lake Trailhead.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The last 2 miles are steep and rocky; good footwear is essential for this challenging section.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Carry more water than you think you'll need, or bring a water filter for the journey. +1
📸 Capture the Views
The turquoise water and mountain vistas are incredibly photogenic, especially in the morning light.
⛰️ Consider Trekking Poles
Poles can significantly help with stability and reduce strain on your knees during the steep ascents.
🐻 Be Bear Aware
While not as common as other areas, it's always wise to be prepared for wildlife encounters in the PNW.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking beauty of Colchuck Lake, describing its turquoise waters and mountain backdrop as unreal and postcard-worthy. While the hike is challenging, particularly the steep and rocky final miles, most agree it's absolutely worth the effort. Early morning visits are highly recommended to avoid crowds and secure parking.
"Absolutely stunning! The hike is challenging but so worth it. The trail starts out moderate, then gets steeper and rockier as you get closer to the lake, so good shoes are a must. It took me about 4–5 hours round trip with breaks, and the climb really gets your heart pumping.
When you finally reach the top, the turquoise water with beautiful mountains in the background feels unreal—like something out of a postcard. It’s cold if you dip your feet in, but refreshing after the climb. Go early in the morning to avoid crowds, since the lot fills up fast."
Panda DC Chatchayanukorn
"Great hike, easy for the first 3 miles but the last 2 miles not so much. Steep , rocky pathways and it’s definitely more than 9 miles round trip even though it says differently when you look up the hike. It doesn’t matter once you get to the top is all worth it!! Gorgeous views, beautiful and clear water. Great spot to get lost for a few hours!"
Ivy G
"My first glacier lake. It was absolutely stunning. Experience was really great. Hiking was hard. We walk almost 10 miles up and down from parking lot. Suggest to go early. First 2-2.5 miles is absolutely beautiful not that hard either. Waterfalls and creek and forest."
Rudra Timshina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Stuart Lake Trailhead, the starting point for Colchuck Lake, is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Seattle. The final approach involves a dirt road, so a vehicle with decent clearance is recommended.
Yes, but parking is extremely limited and fills up very early, often before sunrise. Arriving by 5-6 AM is highly advised to secure a spot.
Some hikers have reported sleeping in their cars at the trailhead, but it's advisable to check local regulations and be discreet.
The hike to Colchuck Lake is approximately 8-9 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 2,300 feet.
The road to the Stuart Lake Trailhead can be subject to seasonal closures, especially in winter. Always check current conditions before your trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A free day-use permit is required for the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, which you can fill out at the trailhead. For overnight stays in The Enchantments, a highly competitive lottery permit is necessary.
There is no direct entrance fee for the hike itself, but a Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required for parking at the trailhead.
The trailhead is generally accessible during daylight hours, but due to parking limitations, early arrival is key. There are no official operating hours for the trail itself.
A day-use permit is required for the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. While often self-issued at the trailhead, it's essential to have one. Overnight permits for The Enchantments are separate and highly competitive.
Dogs are generally allowed on the trail but must be kept on a leash. Always check the latest regulations for the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is considered moderate to hard. The first few miles are relatively gentle, but the last 2 miles are steep and rocky, requiring good physical condition.
Visiting in the early morning is highly recommended to avoid crowds and secure parking. Sunrise hikes offer magical light.
Yes, you can swim in Colchuck Lake, but be prepared for extremely cold glacial water, even in summer.
There are vault toilets at the Stuart Lake Trailhead. There are no facilities along the trail itself.
You'll experience lush forests, flowing creeks, waterfalls, and eventually, stunning alpine meadows leading to the breathtaking lake and surrounding peaks. +1
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning light offers soft, beautiful illumination on the lake and peaks. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant turquoise water is always striking.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain and lake views. A polarizing filter can enhance the water's color.
The entire shoreline offers incredible perspectives. Look for shots that frame the lake with Dragontail Peak in the background.
Drone usage is often restricted in wilderness areas and national forests. Always check the specific regulations for the Alpine Lakes Wilderness before flying.
Shooting from slightly elevated positions along the shore can help emphasize the lake's vibrant color and depth.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Challenging Ascent: What to Expect
To make the climb more manageable, consider using trekking poles. They can provide extra stability and reduce the impact on your knees, especially during the descent.
Despite the difficulty, the reward is immense. The moment you crest the final rise and lay eyes on Colchuck Lake, the challenging trek fades into insignificance. The sheer beauty of the alpine lake, with its impossibly blue water and dramatic mountain backdrop, makes every step worthwhile.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Colchuck Lake
For the best photographic opportunities, aim for an early morning start. The soft, golden light of sunrise illuminates the mountains and lake beautifully, often with fewer crowds.
Midday sun can be harsh, creating strong shadows, but the intense color of the lake is still a compelling subject. Don't forget to also capture the details: the texture of the rocks, the delicate alpine flora, and if you're lucky, the local wildlife like mountain goats.
The Enchantments: A Glimpse Beyond Colchuck
While the hike to Colchuck Lake itself is a rewarding day trip, it also serves as a gateway to a much larger and more challenging backpacking experience. To continue beyond Colchuck Lake into the heart of The Enchantments, hikers typically aim for Aasgard Pass, a notoriously steep and demanding climb.
This route leads to a higher alpine basin with numerous other stunning lakes, including Isolation Lake and Inspiration Lake. However, overnight stays within The Enchantments require a highly sought-after permit obtained through a lottery system, as it's a designated wilderness area with strict camping regulations to preserve its fragile ecosystem. For day hikers, the journey to Colchuck Lake is a fantastic introduction to the grandeur of the Enchantments. Those seeking the full backpacking experience should plan well in advance to secure the necessary permits and be prepared for multi-day treks with significant elevation changes and rugged terrain.
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