10 Years Experience
Specialized in Camping & Trekking
Leavenworth, Washington
4 Hours 57 Minutes
May and October
Dogs Are Not Permitted
Explore this 14-kilometer out-and-back trek near Leavenworth, Washington. It is generally regarded as a difficult route, and it takes an average of 4 h 57 min to finish. Because this is a popular region for backpacking, hiking, and snowshoeing, you'll almost certainly run into other people while exploring. This trail is best visited between May and October. Dogs are not permitted on this trail, so leave them at home.
This is a difficult hike with stunning scenery in Washington State's Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area. At the far end of this alpine lake, the twin spires of Dragontail Peak and Colchuck Peak may be seen.
The Colchuck Lake Trail begins at the Stuart Lake trailhead, which may be reached via Forest Service Road 7601.
,br>Road Icicle Creek. Visitors to the Enchantments and Stuart Lake use this trailhead, thus the parking lot can get crowded. On busy days, you may need to park a long distance away from the trailhead.
The hike begins with an easy mile and a half stroll along the creek through the woodland. Mountaineer Creek can be seen at several times along this section of the trail. Following the trek through the woods, you will cross the creek on a bridge before beginning the hike's first big ascent.
After a series of rough switchbacks, you'll arrive at the trailhead for Stuart and Colchuck lakes. Stay to the left and you'll come across another wood bridge, as well as breathtaking panoramas that serve as a backdropthe entrance to the wild.
After crossing the bridge, you will stroll along the creek before your next hard push uphill. The ascent is still rocky and has tree roots, but it is manageable. On your way to the lake, you'll pass through a few scenic places with great photo opportunities.
When you arrive at Colchuck Lake, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the blue/green lake and the Alps that stand behind it. If you choose to extend your trip, the trail continues through Colchuck Luck and over Aasgard Pass to the Enchantment Lakes. If not, go back the way you came.
From May 15 to October 31, you'll need a permit to stay overnight at the lake.
