The Enchantments Washington
A legendary wilderness area in Washington's Cascade Mountains, famed for its dramatic peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and challenging trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden larches paint the landscape.
The Enchantments Washington
Best Time
Golden larches paint the landscape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary wilderness area in Washington's Cascade Mountains, famed for its dramatic peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and challenging trails.
"Some of the most breathtaking views I have seen on this planet."
Pack Microspikes for Fall
If hiking in fall, snow and ice are common on Aasgard Pass. Microspikes are essential for safety.
Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, as there's little shade on much of the trail, especially after Aasgard Pass.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colchuck Lake
Stuart Lake Trailhead
A stunning alpine lake with turquoise waters, framed by jagged peaks. A challenging but rewarding destination.
+4Aasgard Pass
Between Colchuck Lake and Core Enchantments
A notoriously steep and challenging scramble offering incredible panoramic views.
Core Enchantments
Upper and Lower Enchantments Basin
The heart of the wilderness, featuring numerous alpine lakes and dramatic granite peaks.
+1
Snow Lakes
End of the thru-hike
A beautiful chain of lakes offering a rewarding finish to the long thru-hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Permit Lottery is Key
Day Hike Logistics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Microspikes for Fall
If hiking in fall, snow and ice are common on Aasgard Pass. Microspikes are essential for safety.
Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, as there's little shade on much of the trail, especially after Aasgard Pass.
Shuttle Service is Key
For day hikes, book a shuttle between trailheads to avoid a long walk back to your car.
Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash, including toilet paper. Volunteers are working hard to keep this area pristine.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Microspikes for Fall
If hiking in fall, snow and ice are common on Aasgard Pass. Microspikes are essential for safety.
Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, as there's little shade on much of the trail, especially after Aasgard Pass.
Shuttle Service is Key
For day hikes, book a shuttle between trailheads to avoid a long walk back to your car.
Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash, including toilet paper. Volunteers are working hard to keep this area pristine.
Be Prepared for Bugs
Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be prevalent, especially in early summer. Bring repellent.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe The Enchantments as a once-in-a-lifetime hiking experience with breathtaking, unparalleled natural beauty. While the challenging terrain and the difficulty of obtaining permits are noted drawbacks, the stunning alpine lakes, jagged peaks, and potential wildlife sightings make it a true wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts.
"A once in a lifetime hiking experience. Some of the most breathtaking views I have seen on this planet.The towering, jagged, granite peaks that stretch high above the clear blue lakes are a perfect remedy to a clouded mind and exhausted body. The trail is difficult, and the water is cold. If you are a sucker for nature’s greatest marvels, then this place will feel like home."
Isaac Engeling
"One of the iconic hikes in Washington is attracting tourists from all over the places. I have done through hike twice and scored a permit and backpacked ones. I have done through hike recently and noticed how scenery is changing. Alpine lakes are getting smaller, more trash and paper on a way to Colchuck Lake, toilets are required some cleaning. Core Zone is amazing and you never be bored of the views, true wonderland for hikers, backpackers and climbers. We saw mountain goats, deer, marmots. Last ten miles are just decent to Snow Lakes TH, the Upper Snow Lake changed tremendously, and sized down."
Oksana Z
"You will get to experience the best of Washington on this backpacking trail, featuring stunning lakes throughout. The Aasgard Pass offers a brutal challenge yet an enjoyable scramble. The stretch to Snow Lake is fun and beautiful. However, the last 9 miles may feel monotonous. Overall, a rewarding adventure for nature enthusiasts."
Maneesh J
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Enchantments are located near Leavenworth, WA. From Seattle, it's about a 2.5-3 hour drive to the Leavenworth area. For day hikes, you'll typically need to arrange transportation between trailheads, such as the Stuart Lake Trailhead and the Snow Lakes Trailhead, often using a shuttle service. +1
For the thru-hike, you can start at either the Stuart Lake Trailhead (leading to Colchuck Lake) or the Snow Lakes Trailhead. Many opt to start at Stuart Lake and finish at Snow Lakes, often using a shuttle to get back to their car.
Parking is available at both the Stuart Lake and Snow Lakes trailheads, but it can fill up very quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving very early is recommended.
Public transportation directly to the trailheads is limited. Most visitors drive or arrange private shuttles. Leavenworth offers some local transport options that might connect to shuttle services.
The drive from Seattle to Leavenworth, the gateway town to The Enchantments, typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an overnight permit is required for camping in The Enchantments, obtained through a highly competitive lottery system. Day hiking does not require a permit, but it's still a challenging endeavor.
Overnight permits are issued via a lottery system managed by the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Applications are typically accepted in early spring for the summer season.
The odds are very low, with only about 2% of applicants typically securing an overnight permit. Many visitors opt for day hikes instead.
Historically, some walk-up permits were available, but this is not a reliable strategy. The lottery system is the primary method for obtaining overnight permits.
The Enchantments are a wilderness area and are accessible year-round, weather permitting. However, the best hiking season is typically from late spring through early fall.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Enchantments hike, especially the thru-hike, is considered very difficult. It involves significant elevation gain, steep ascents like Aasgard Pass, and a long distance (around 22 miles).
A day hike thru-hike can take anywhere from 10 to 15 hours, depending on your fitness level and pace. Overnight trips allow for more time to enjoy the scenery.
You might encounter mountain goats, deer, marmots, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
Yes, there are rudimentary pit toilets located at intervals along the trail, particularly in the Core Enchantments area. Some offer surprisingly scenic views!
Dogs are generally not permitted in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, which includes The Enchantments, to protect the fragile ecosystem and wildlife. Always check current regulations.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities within The Enchantments wilderness itself. You'll need to pack all your food and snacks for the hike. Leavenworth offers many dining options before or after your trip.
Pack high-energy, non-perishable foods like trail mix, energy bars, jerky, and sandwiches. Ensure you have enough for the entire duration of your hike, plus a little extra.
Campfires are generally prohibited in The Enchantments to protect the environment. If you are backpacking, you'll need to use a backpacking stove for cooking.
Leavenworth has a variety of restaurants, from casual pubs to German-themed eateries. Many visitors enjoy grabbing a meal or a drink in town after their hike.
It is strongly recommended to filter or treat all water from natural sources in the wilderness to avoid waterborne illnesses.
📸 📸 Photography
Colchuck Lake, Aasgard Pass views, the Core Enchantments lakes, and the golden larches in autumn are all incredibly photogenic. Don't forget the unique 'bathroom views'!
Autumn (late September to early October) is spectacular for photography due to the golden larch trees. Summer offers vibrant green landscapes and clear blue lakes.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grand landscapes. Consider a polarizing filter for vibrant lake colors and a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
General photography is allowed, but be mindful of Leave No Trace principles and avoid disturbing wildlife or sensitive areas. Drone usage may be restricted in wilderness areas.
Include a person or a recognizable object in your shot to provide a sense of scale. Shooting from a lower vantage point can also emphasize the towering peaks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families looking for a taste of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, consider the Icicle Gorge Trail. This 4.1-mile loop is much more manageable, dog-friendly, and features charming bridges and river access, making it a more suitable option for a family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
While overnight permits are highly competitive and free, the real 'cost' is the effort and planning involved. For day hikers, the primary expense is fuel and any shuttle fees. Leavenworth offers a range of accommodation and dining options, from budget-friendly to more upscale, allowing you to tailor your spending.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the autumn months (late September to early October) when the larches turn golden, creating a magical, fairytale-like atmosphere.
Remember to pack essential gear such as a wide-angle lens, a polarizing filter, and a sturdy tripod. Be mindful of the light, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, to capture the dramatic interplay of light and shadow on the mountains. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchantments Permit System Explained
For those who do secure a permit, the wilderness is divided into zones, and your permit will specify where you can camp. This system is in place to manage the high volume of visitors and protect the fragile alpine environment. Remember to always practice Leave No Trace principles, as the area is heavily trafficked and relies on volunteer efforts for maintenance.
If you're unsuccessful in the lottery, don't despair. The surrounding Alpine Lakes Wilderness offers numerous other stunning hiking and backpacking opportunities. Researching alternative trails in the area can provide a similarly rewarding experience without the permit stress.
Conquering the Aasgard Pass Challenge
Proper preparation is key to safely navigating Aasgard Pass. This includes having good physical conditioning, sturdy hiking boots, and trekking poles for stability. In the fall, snow and ice can make the pass treacherous, making microspikes or other traction devices essential.
Despite its difficulty, the reward for conquering Aasgard Pass is immense. The panoramic views from the top, overlooking pristine alpine lakes like Isolation Lake, are breathtaking and make the strenuous climb entirely worthwhile. It's a true test of endurance and a highlight for many who complete the traverse.
The Magic of Autumn in The Enchantments
The autumn colors provide a breathtaking contrast against the granite peaks and clear alpine lakes. While the weather can be more unpredictable, with a higher chance of snow, the reduced crowds and the vibrant foliage make it a prime time for photographers and hikers seeking a different kind of beauty.
It's important to be prepared for cooler temperatures and potential snow or ice on the trails during this season. Packing layers, waterproof gear, and traction devices like microspikes is highly recommended. Despite the potential for challenging conditions, the visual spectacle of the golden larches makes an autumn hike in The Enchantments an unforgettable adventure.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit