Show more photos. Colchuck was gorgeous, and as one of the first day hikers to arrive at the lake, I enjoyed some peace and quiet at the north end of the lake watching a bald eagle sitting on a branchless tree on the left shore of the lake and a few tiny specks climb Colchuck Peak. Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce - PO Box 327, 940 Highway 2 Suite B, The first part of the trail follows a creek for about one mile to a log footbridge. There are also campsites near north end of lake. At about 1.75 miles (elev. It is a larger cousin to the nearby fabled Enchantment Lakes and offers many of the same payoffs – including groves of larches on its far shore – but can be reached with less than half the effort. Let me know in the comments what you think of this incredible lake and hike! Parking for about 40 cars and a toilet is available (no water). Moments before rounding the corner to Colchuck Lake a group of avid hikers had just crossed paths with a Mountain Goat and baby. The Colchuck Lake trail has an elevation gain of 2,280 feet. The Stuart Lake Trail #1599 begins by following Mountaineer Creek into a mixed forest. After the bridge the trail begins to climb, switchbacking its way up to a junction at 2.5 miles. Defined by Department of Justice regulations 28 C.F.R. Trip will open for registration to all Mountaineers, based on availability, 7-10 days prior to date of the hike. Turn left here and trail soon crosses Mountaineer Creek again on a log bridge. I’m still torn. About 3 hours of slowly climbing and some (totally justified) complaining later, we crested the pass and feasted our eyes on the handful of frozen lakes in front of us. We knew we wanted to arrive at sunrise, so after some hiking time estimates and driving times, we realized we had a shocking 12:30 am wakeup call ahead of us. Jul 3, 2015 - Set beneath two of Washington’s tallest peaks, Colchuck Lake is an alpine gem. Colchuck Peak Weather (Days 0-3): The weather forecast for Colchuck Peak is: A moderate fall of snow, heaviest on Fri afternoonTemperatures will be below freezing (max -2°C on Wed night, min -11°C on Sat afternoon)Winds increasing (light winds from the … Quick Facts. Get the App. This beautiful trail is accessed from Stuart Lake Trail #1599 which starts at Stuart Lake Trailhead (3400' elevation). Neko, Joe, and I set off in the morning with hopes of backpacking the complete 18+ mile thru hike of the Enchantments trail just … My Maps; Create Map; Print Maps; Route Converter; Company. While it was a butt kicker, the scenery along the trail was beautiful and adventurous and the lake at the end was easily the coolest lake I’ve hiked into. The first 2.3 miles of this trail, to the south side Colchuck Lake, is the most popular.The trail gradually climbs through the forest along Mountaineer Creek and at 2.6 miles the junction with Colchuck Lake Trail is reached. The jagged peaks and passes surrounding the lake have mystical names like Dragontail and Aasgard Pass. Forest Service Home | USDA.gov | recreation.gov | Recreation Customer Service Standards | USA.gov | Whitehouse.gov, Plug-Ins | FOIA | Accessibility Statement | Privacy Policy | Important Notices | Information Quality, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/okawen/recarea/?recid=58717, Alpine Lakes Wilderness Regulations Booklet, Entiat - Lake Wenatchee Area: Upper Mad River Seasonal Trail Closure, Naches Area: Boulder Cave Trail / Day Use Site Closed, Pack and Saddle Stock Weed Free Feed Requirements, New Appeal Regulations for Special Use Authorizations. Alpine Lake Wilderness permit required. Sunshine, crisp mountain air, and beautiful scenery... the perfect backdrop to get outdoors and enjoy! The trail gradually climbs through forest along Mountaineer Creek and crosses creek at 1.5 miles on a log bridge. With dozens of wineries and wine tasting rooms, Leavenworth is quickly becoming a premier wine country destination. The way leaves the parking lot and the trail meanders the valley. Shortly afterwards the trail begins its climb. Colchuck Lake Trail #1599A An overnight reservation permit is required from May 15 to October 31. Four lakes were ultimately chosen to supplement seasonal water flows: Colchuck, Eightmile, Klonaqua and Square lakes. The trail gradually climbs through forest along Mountaineer Creek and crosses creek at 1.5 miles on a log bridge. The trail is sometimes steep and rough for 1.5 miles from creek crossing to the lake, which is at 5500' elevation. Location: Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Icicle River Valley . Dogs, and all pets, are prohibited, except for Service Dogs as defined by Department of Justice regulations 28 C.F.R. There are campsites on both the west side and the south end of the lake. This beautiful trail is accessed from Stuart Lake Trail #1599 which starts at Stuart Lake Trailhead (3400' elevation). (509) 682-4900, Cle Elum Ranger District This gorgeous lake is part of the greater Alpine Lake Wilderness, which is commonly referred to as the most scenic part of the Cascade Mountain Range. Dogs, and all pets, are prohibited. Countries; Regions; Cities; Parks; Trails; Maps. Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet. Pin me: The first 2.3 miles of this trail, to the south side Colchuck Lake, is the most popular.The trail gradually climbs through the forest along Mountaineer Creek and at 2.6 miles the junction with Colchuck Lake Trail is reached. Colchuck Lake Set beneath two of Washington’s tallest peaks, Colchuck Lake is an alpine gem. Explore. DOGS are prohibited on Colchuck Lake trail, Stuart Lake trail and within the Enchantment Permit Area. This trail is within Alpine Lakes Wilderness. While the final ascent to the lake is steep and rough in places, Colchucks overall elevation gain of 2,300 feet makes its spectacular scenery accessible to hikers of almost any ability. Let me know in the comments what you think of this incredible lake and hike! Trailhead: From west end of Leavenworth on Highway 2, turn south on Icicle Road. (509) 996-4000, Naches Ranger District The Colchuck Lake trail has an elevation gain of 2,280 feet. The trail has a distance of 14.5 km and an elevation gain of 696 m. It is a loop trail located near Leavenworth, Washington. And all this is within relatively easy reach. However, the … From the lake you can view Aasgard Pass which is for more serious hikers/backpackers to enter the Enchantments and that have received a pass to camp overnight. Follow the path another 1.1 miles south around to the opposite shore. Colchuck Lake nearby hotel search is centered on latitude 47.4920 & longitude -120.8336.. Hotels Near Colchuck Lake - Get Current Rates & Check Availability This is because the views are absolutely beautiful, there is the optiojn to see wildlife, and it can be the first leg of one's journey to hike through the Enchantments (part of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area). is now part of Colville National Forest. No dogs are allowed on this heavily used trail. The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and backpacking and is best used from May until October. Countries; Regions; Cities; Parks; Trails; Maps. Camp as near the south end as possible. In summer, cars fill not only the trailhead parking lot, but the road leading to it. Dogs whose sole purpose is to provide therapy, comfort, emotional support or crime deterrent do not qualify as service dogs. The trailhead is easily found from the parking area. (509) 548-2550, Tonasket Ranger District 10237 Highway 12 Turn left here and trail soon crosses Mountaineer Creek again on a log bridge. Colchuck Lake is one of the gateways into the Enchantments. Headquarters Colchuck Lake was one of my top favorite hikes we did. 215 Melody Lane Colchuck Balanced Rock is situated west of Enchantment Peak, and east of Jabberwocky Tower and Colchuck Lake. There are beautiful views of the lake -- with Dragontail Peak and Colchuck Peak rising 3,000 feet above south end of lake. At around two and a quarter miles, the Colchuck Lake Trail breaks off to the left. From here, climb 1100 feet in just 1.6 miles to reach the north shore of the lake. However, the views at the lake are well worth the effort. At the Lake they were joined by the mosquitoes to blunt the enjoyment this lake has to offer. Don’t let me scare you off, if you’re in any kind of shape you can hike Colchuck Lake, it’s just that Blue Lake is very easy for an equally awesome view. The trail immediately crosses Mountaineer Creek again and then climbs steeply over sometimes rocky and washed-out trail. At this point, you will continue up steep and rocky switch backs until you reach a junction for Stuart Lake (arrow point right) and Colchuck Lake (arrow point left). Length 9 miElevation gain 2283 ftRoute type Out & back For those who are not in good physical shape, this trail may be very hard for you to complete. The first time you round the corner and come out of the trees at Colchuck Lake is something of a religious experience. Core Enchantment permit hol ders may camp in any of the five zones. There are several breaks in the trees so you can get a preview of the peaks as you head up to Colchuck Lake. Colchuck Lake Trail begins at Stuart Lake trailhead and parking lot by Forest Service Road 7601, which can be reached from Icicle Creek Road. Get the App. Colchuck Lake is truly a gem of a day hike. Map Information. Colchuck Lake Trail #1599A hiking trail in Enchantments, Washington. Colchuck Peak : SummitPost.org : Climbing, hiking, mountaineering. It’s a fun hike with unbeatable views, especially at the lake. Explore. Entiat, WA 98822 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. There is a beautiful view of a waterfall along the climb. Head left and and continue on the Colchuck Lake trail until you come across another log bridge. The first part of this trail follows the Stuart Lake Trail before branching off to the left. Begin on the Stuart La… Made it unpleasant to say the least. The trail continues along western shore of lake to access campsites and the route up Aasgard Pass to the Enchantments. The easiest routes are scrambles from the south and / or the Colchuck Col at the top of the Colchuck Glacier to the east. After climbing a quick 1,100 ft from the valley base, you'll reach Colchuck Lake. Many great spots for swimming and snoozing. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest The trail starts at 3400 ft elevation and climbs gradually to 5600 ft elevation over 4.5 miles. The lower and upper sections of the boulder field after crossing Mountaineer Creek. › Colchuck Lake via Stuart Lake Trail › Photos Photos of Colchuck Lake via Stuart Lake Trail Colchuck Lake via Stuart Lake Trail. As you get closer to the lake, the trail … Follow the trail to the left and after a short stretch in the trees, come to another log bridge that takes you across a narrow, turbulent section of Mountaineer Creek. The roundtrip covers 7.7 … At Colchuck Lake, an easy going 1.1 miles travels the east and south shores. Day hikers are encouraged to park on the road or in the island of parking area. It took us about 4.5 hours up, and 2 down...We ran down the mountain. Land Agency: National Forest Service. Precipitation runoff from the peak drains into the lake and Mountaineer Creek, a tributary of Icicle Creek. Colchuck Lake nearby hotel search is centered on latitude 47.4920 & longitude -120.8336.. Hotels Near Colchuck Lake - Get Current Rates & Check Availability Within a quarter-mile the trail crosses into the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. It is the bigger brother to the nearby Enchantment Lakes, much easier to reach (as a day hike, especially), and some have described it as a religious experience.The glacier-fed waters of Colchuck Lake are an ethereal aquamarine blue. Shortly afterwards the trail begins its climb. Leavenworth, WA 98826 Tel: USFS Northwest Trail Pass and self-issuing day use pass. Moments before rounding the corner to Colchuck Lake a group of avid hikers had just crossed paths with a Mountain Goat and baby. Just prior to reaching the lake there are breath taking views of Mount Stuart. Article and photo by Craig Romano. Dogs whose sole purpose is to provide therapy, comfort, emotional support or crime deterrent DO NOT QUALIFY AS SERVICE DOGS under the regulation and are NOT ALLOWED. By 1930, a dam was constructed at Colchuck Lake, and today’s trail likely follows a route blazed for the construction of that dam. Leave designated overnight parking for permit holders. See Enchantment Lakes permit information. 2108 Entiat Way A moderate, 9 mile round trip day hike with 2,100 feet of elevation gain. Colchuck Lake via Stuart Lake Trail is a 9 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Leavenworth, Washington that features a lake and is rated as difficult. At about the two-mile mark find the junction with the Colchuck Lake Trail #1599.1 (sometimes referred to as #1599A) and head left to push up toward the lake. Straight ahead the path to Stuart Lake rolls out, while the Colchuck Lake Trail #1599.1 breaks off to the left. Taste the flavors of Leavenworth throughout town and tantalize your taste buds. This beautiful trail is accessed from Stuart Lake Trail #1599 which starts at Stuart Lake Trailhead (3400' elevation). This hike is challenging in that it is mostly up, and up, and up. CHS Tacoma September Hike: Trip will initially open to Tacoma Branch Conditioning Hiking Students. With an elevation gain of over 2000 feet, the hike to Colchuck lake is challenging. If you have any questions please call the Leavenworth Ranger Station at (509) 548-2550. (509) 784-4700, Methow Valley Ranger District Colchuck Lake. Overnight camping in this area requires a permit from May 15 - October 31. Colchuck Lake was one of my top favorite hikes we did. This hike is challenging in that it is mostly up, and up, and up. SEE PARKING INFORMATION BELOW. At the peak of the trail, you will be standing at an elevation of 5,580 feet. This beautiful and very popular 4-mile trail is accessed from Stuart Lake Trail #1599 which starts at Stuart Lake Trailhead (3400' elevation). Colchuck Lake Snow Lake Zone Colchuck Lake Zone Stuart Lake Zone Eightmile/Caroline Zone View a map of the permit zones. At approximately 8.4 miles turn left on Forest Service Road 7601 (Bridge Creek Campground is near junction). The trail continues up with multiple switch backs. Offering a wonderful day trip, Colchuck Lake via Stuart Lake Trail is a beautiful trail and offers a number of activities. The lakes are situated within the Cascade Mountains in Washington State, where visitors are privy to endlessly beautiful views of lakes, larch trees, snow-topped peaks, glaciers, and occasional goat sightings. It is the bigger brother to the nearby Enchantment Lakes, much easier to reach (as a day hike, especially), and some have described it as a religious experience.The glacier-fed waters of Colchuck Lake are an ethereal aquamarine blue. 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