As spectacular as it is well-known, a hiking expedition to the Enchantments in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness is an ambition on virtually every Pacific Northwest adventurer’s wish list.
It’s one of the most astonishing pieces of alpine paradise in the country – easily earning a spot among the top five on our list of the best Washington State hikes – with an endless ocean of granite mingled with alpine lakes, larches that glow splendidly in autumn, and plenty of resident mountain goats (remember, they’re wild creatures and you must keep your distance).
Given the popularity of this area, the overnight permits for the Enchantments are extremely restricted, and the spring lottery that decides the fortunate few who get one is an annual tradition for many across the country.
Fortunately for us, we secured permits in 2020 for a hike later that same week, and packed our minivan (Homer the Honda Odyssey, RIP) and made our way to Leavenworth to take advantage of our good fortune.
It’s difficult to adequately describe the sheer natural magnificence we experienced on our backpacking trip using words alone, so we’ll move straight into the Enchantments trail guide you`re seeking information on.
In this guide, we aim to thoroughly cover everything necessary to understand for safely hiking the Enchantments trail. We’ll initially discuss logistics, for example what route to take, day hiking versus overnight hiking, which direction to hike, and handling the parking situation.
We’ll also discuss securing an overnight permit in the EXTREMELY competitive lottery that occurs each spring, and then go through a detailed trail report so you know exactly what to anticipate on the trail.
By the end of the guide, our intention is that you have all the information needed to plan an incredible adventure through the Enchantments, which we’d say lives up to the hype (though the crowds and associated logistics can be a bit of a downer).
Sound good to you? Let’s get into it.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.
Table of Contents
Hiking the Enchantments: The Trail Details
- Length: 19 miles
- The main factor of elevation was gaining four thousand feet and losing six thousand feet.
- Season: July – October
- Type of Hike: Thru Hike (One Way)
- Difficulty: Very Hard
- Dog Friendly? No
- Pass Required: Northwest Forest Permit OR America the Gorgeous Pass
The trailhead to begin this exciting journey is located at Stuart / Enchantments Trail but leave your car at the Snow Lakes Trailhead
How Difficult is This Hike?
We will not misrepresent the challenge – this hike requires significant exertion.
This is especially significant considering the only two ways to complete this hike are by backpacking while carrying an additional 20-30 pounds on your back or accomplishing it all in a single day, with each option presenting its own challenges.
And it’s not just the ascent that’s difficult. Reaching the top, assuming you’re adhering to our guidance and starting at the Colchuck Lake trailhead and hiking through to the Snow Lakes Trailhead, is breathtaking. Specifically the 1,500 foot climb up Aasgard Pass in under a mile.
Walking downhill for 10 miles over 6,000 feet left our legs feeling wobbly when we reached the car. Descents prove that mileage alone doesn`t capture the challenge, even spread out.
Regardless of the approach, you need to be prepared for a truly extremely difficult hike.
Do not underestimate it – you need plenty of water (including a water filter allowing refills and meal preparation), ample food (we’d carry backpacking meals even for day hiking), and significant sun protection for hot summer days.
The Route for This Hike
Allow me to first discuss this hike at a high level before exploring the specifics in subsequent sections below.
This hiking trail connects two trailheads outside of Leavenworth, Washington, allowing hikers to travel one way between Stuart Lake Trailhead and Snow Lakes Trailhead.
Along the route, hiking will be done along the shores of gorgeous Colchuck Lake, a rocky ascent will be made that climbs nearly 2,000 feet in less than a mile, and descent will occur through a sea of granite past a string of seemingly endless alpine lakes.
In this section, let’s discuss the hiking route options, and doing this as an overnight hike or a day hike (which is possible but grueling).
Which Direction Should You Hike in?
We have a solid perspective on this topic, particularly for backpackers.
We strongly believe that beginning this trail from the Stuart Lake Trailhead and ending at the Snow Lakes Trailhead is the preferred route.
Fundamentally, it’s Aasgard Pass. Reaching the Enchantments necessitates crossing Aasgard Pass, attaining roughly 1,500 feet in under a mile. Even if that alone comprised the hike, it would definitely rank among the toughest we`ve ever undertaken.
You absolutely do not want to descend Aasgard Pass, particularly if you’re carrying a 30 pound backpack. It’s steep, there’s no official trail, it’s rocky, and we would consider it relatively dangerous going down.
To make certain you climb Aasgard Pass, begin at the Stuart Lake Trailhead, hike up and around Colchuck Lake, and tackle Aasgard Pass.
Oh, and the Stuart Lake Trailhead is a solid 2,000 feet higher than Snow Lakes, so you’ll be walking downhill for most of the hike if you take our guidance.
Where to Park Your Car
Given the provided details about hiking point-to-point between the Stuart Lake Trailhead and the Snow Lakes Trailhead, the next point worth considering is how to handle vehicle transportation.
There are essentially two legitimate options (the third being hitchhiking, which isn’t something you’re going to want to do at the end of a 20 mile hike).
One approach involves using two vehicles, parking one at each trail end. Of course, this means two drivers and automobiles. You`d drive to the lower trailhead, leave a car, take the second car up to the upper lot and start the hike from there.
On the latter half, everyone will pile back into the car that was left at the Snow Lakes Trailhead and drive up to the Stuart Lakes Trailhead to retrieve the other car, then head out.
The second choice is theLoop Connector Shuttle. This paid service picks up travelers from the Snow Lakes Trailhead and transports them to the Stuart Lake Trailhead to begin their hike.
This means that you’ll leave your vehicle at the Snow Lakes Trailhead, which will be waiting for you upon finishing the hike.
It costs $24 per person, only operates on Friday, Saturday and Sunday during summer with three pickups at 4am, 5am, and 6am, and reservations must be made in advance.
The Loop Connector Shuttle is the best means to complete this one way hike without a second vehicle.
Doing This as a Day Hike vs. an Overnight Hike
Because overnight permits are highly competitive for the Enchantments Zone, the majority of individuals you see on the trail will actually be doing the Enchantments as a day hike. Which is astonishing to us.
It is doable? Absolutely, but only for hikers who are in excellent physical condition.
You will spend twelve or more hours on the trail, climbing approximately 4,500 feet and descending 6,000 feet. Completing this hike in a single day will likely leave you feeling depleted by the end due to its demanding nature, even when spread over two or three days.
The biggest problem with making the Enchantments as a day hike is that you’ll spend the entire walk worrying about getting back to your vehicle before darkness. Which means you won’t be able to fully immerse yourself in the spectacular landscape you’re walking through.
If able, we strongly suggest doing this hike as an overnight stay (more details on structuring that below).
If day hiking is your only option, definitely start early – we’re talking 5am or 6am. Ideally, you want to hike in the dark initially, when you’re fresher, and finish while it’s still light out.
Hiking miles 17-20 – which is a steep descent – when it’s dark out is asking for an accident.
Getting to the Trailhead(s)
As we’ve already discussed, you’ll be thru hiking this trail from the Stuart Lake Trailhead to the Snow Lakes Trailhead, which means that there are two trailheads to talk about here.
It is worth reiterating that visitors need to arrive at both trailheads by around 6:30 am at the latest to have any chance of securing parking directly in the lots as opposed to along nearby roadsides.
And it’s approximately a 10-15 minute drive between access points.
It will be an early start (you should plan on starting even earlier if thru hiking to maximize daylight) but well worth it.
As mentioned earlier, no matter what your day will start at the trailhead for Snow Lakes, where you`ll need to leave your car.
The trail head providing access to the Snow Lakes Trail is located directly off of Icicle Road, approximately five miles south of Leavenworth.
There is parking for 30-40 vehicles in the parking lot, though it is almost always full because nearly everyone – thru hikers and backpackers – leaves a car there.
The passage noted vehicles lined the road there, which seems to frequently occur
From there, you’ll either take the second vehicle or catch the shuttle service connecting to the prominent Stuart Lake Trailhead.
From the first trailhead, you`ll head four miles to the west (left upon departure) along Icicle Road before tackling an approximately 3.5 mile bumpy dirt path (our older Honda Odyssey managed it with little difficulty), ultimately arriving at the trailhead.
This trailhead, serving both the Enchantments and very popular Colchuck Lake Trail, becomes incredibly crowded as it sees heavy use. Congestion is severe, so plan to arrive no later than 6:30am if wanting a parking spot.
There are designated spots for overnight hikers, and you’ll need to have the parking pass printed to display on your dashboard to park there.
There are multiple restrooms at each trailhead, though given the number of individuals here, you`ll likely have to wait anyway.
Passes and Permits You Need
This hiking trail – more significantly, the starting point – is on National Forest grounds. You’ll need a Northwest Forest Permit to display in your vehicle to park at the beginning point, which you can obtain beforehand at REI (either a daily permit for $5, or an annual permit for $30).
It may be possible to purchase a daily entry pass for the trailhead for $5 in cash, though empty envelope bins, especially on crowded summer weekends, indicate passes are sometimes unavailable.
We’d plan on securing a pass in advance given the popularity of this hike.
An America the Beautiful Pass also applies, covering all federal recreation lands like national forests. For three or more national parks in the next year, it`s the superior choice (paying off at three parks).
Avoid parking here without a pass – you`ll almost surely receive a ticket since this is one of the most monitored trailheads in the state due to its high visitor numbers.
The Best Time to Hike the Enchantments Trail
This mountain route is best attempted during the warmer months of summer and early fall, around July through mid-October, when trails and roads leading to the starting point are clear of winter snowpack. While doable in spring with snowshoes, many prefer enjoying the journey during snow-free season.
For about a fortnight in the early autumn (usually in October), the Alpine Lakes Wilderness transforms into one of the best places to see autumn foliage in Washington State.
The larches lining the lakes light up with a brilliant bright yellow hue that is as spectacular as it is fleeting.
While the fall colors are gorgeous, the weather may also be unpredictable, so prepare to be cold, wet, or both if hiking the Enchantments trail then.
Are Dogs Allowed?
No, dogs are not allowed in the Enchantments in order to protect the fragile ecosystem. The rules do not permit any exceptions.
How to Get Overnight Permits
Overnight permits are required to camp in the Enchantments between May 15 and October 15, conveniently overlapping with the most pleasant time to visit the Enchantments (generally July, August, and September).
These permits are allocated through a lottery drawing, which is honestly the fairest way to do it after recently experiencing the Canadian National Parks campground system, which also utilizes a lottery drawing and is significantly less stressful than attempting to access Recreation.gov precisely at 7am to secure a campsite at any of the national parks in the US.
The length of the hike will likely be the primary consideration when choosing between doing a day hike or an overnight hike.
Each year, it appears the number of people applying for an overnight permit in the Core Enchantment Zone increases, while the number of individuals who actually receive permits remains roughly equivalent.
For reference, in 2022 there were 36,827 applications, and just 2,528 permits were issued. That means just 6.9% of applicants get a permit.
Overnight permits for the Enchantments are allocated through a lottery on Recreation.gov.
There are three opportunities to secure a permit, which will be outlined in more detail below along with details on the application periods for the most recent season:
- The main lottery. This is typically how most permits are issued. You submit an application with your group size, requested dates, and which permit you want, and then you wait. Eventually, the lottery occurs and you get notified whether or not you were one of the fortunate few.
- The period after the lottery. Once the lottery event and acceptance phase concludes, any permits that remain unused are made accessible on Recreation.gov for reservation on a first-come, first-served basis starting at a particular timestamp (In 2024, this was April 1st at 7:00am Pacific Standard Time). Not every permit offered is issued during the lottery process, however there is a fair chance that weekends throughout July and August may no longer be available. Yet, if a midweek excursion can be planned, this could be a workable option!
- Day-of permits. On the date, a permit for each zone can be obtained by arriving at the ranger station prior to 08:30, when a single permit is distributed randomly. Frequently far more individuals are present than permits accessible, so this should not be depended on exclusively. No need to spend the night at the ranger station – all who arrive on time will have a chance to participate in the selection process.
2024 Enchantments Lottery Information
Mentioned below are the lottery dates for 2024. They are probable to slightly change in later years (check here for the most recent information), but this provides an idea of the timing to be prepared for the lottery.
- Lottery Begin Date (applications open): February 15, 7:00 am PST
- Lottery End (applications must be submitted): February 29, 11:59pm PST
- Lottery Conducted / Permits Distributed: March 7
- View Recreation.gov Lottery Results: March 14
- The deadline to Accept or Reject Permits was March 31st at 11:59 pm Pacific Standard Time.
- Remaining Permits Will Appear for Selection on Recreation.gov at 7:00 AM Pacific Time on April 1st
You will need an account on Recreation.gov in order to submit an application for a permit. The application includes the entry date, group size, group leader, alternate group leader, and permit zone. It also requires paying a $6 fee and submitting the application.
Then, the waiting game begins.
When the lottery has been finished and results are accessible (March 14th in 2024), you’ll log back in to your Recreation.gov account and, if you got one, choose how numerous nights you need and pay the permit charge of $5 per individual, for every night.
One last point about improving your likelihood of obtaining a permit.
Upon entering, there are – not exaggerating – six pastry cases completely full of all kinds of sweet and savory pastries, breads, bagels, cakes, éclairs, and just about every baked good imaginable.
Opting for a month other than August (we’d choose September!) and a date other than those three specified above will improve one’s chances of obtaining a permit.
What Permit Zone Should You Choose?
In order to submit your permit request, you will need to specify the zone you wish to access within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness area. This region is essentially divided into five sections, and your permit grants permission to set up camp within the designated zone you obtain.
There is some debate to be had about strategy here – whether you should apply for the less competitive Colchuck or Snow zones, or go for the gold and apply for the Core Enchantment Zone, which is by far the most competitive.
You are able to view the effects zone by zone here – evidently some areas demonstrate more rivalry than others.
If you want to get up into the Enchantments and do the hike as we’ve described, you’re going to want to apply for a Core Enchantments Zone permit, which gives you the ability to camp in the Enchantments themselves AND in any of the other zones.
That was the permit we had, spending the initial night in the Enchantments Core Zone and the second at Snow Lakes to make our descent back to the trailhead more manageable.
The second best option – though far less preferable in our view – would be to obtain a Colchuck Zone permit, establish camp on the shores of Colchuck Lake, and do a day hike into the Enchantments from there.
Going up and down Aasgard Pass in a single day means that you won`t be able to hike the entire trail, especially the section descending to Snow Lakes.
However, the best part of the trail is in the Enchantments Basin, and hiking down to Snow Lakes doesn’t really mean you’re missing a whole lot.
How Many Nights to Spend on the Trail
We think spending somewhere between two to four nights in the wilderness best balances the time available and distance covered each day.
Not to mention, of course, how many nights you can get permits for.
Ideally, if you are forcing us to select, we’d say four days / three nights is the optimum amount of time required to experience the Enchantments fully, particularly after doing so with one fewer night ourselves.
We completed the hike in three days and two nights, and it proved to be a very demanding trek.
If undertaking it with two nights of camping, you essentially have to get all the way up past Aasgard Pass into the Enchantments on your first night, and then to either Lake Viviane or Upper Snow Lakes on the second night to prepare yourself for the long descent back down to the trailhead.
While we got to spend sunrises and sunsets with our jaws agape, we had to move fairly rapidly during the day to ensure we made it to our next camping destination.
A third night renders you have a little more time to marvel at the sheer wonder of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, and you don’t have to move quite as quickly. Plus, time for side trips to Little Annapurna and Prusik Peak, which we ended up having to skip.
More time is obviously even better, but three nights is about the highest limit for consecutive nights in the wilderness for us nowadays.
Where to Camp
There are an nearly boundless number of backcountry campsites available up in the Enchantments, and they’re basically initial-arrival, initial-served in regard to individual campsites.
In this section, camping location options will be examined.
Our primary recommendation here is spending as much time as feasible in the Core Enchantments Zone, which is undoubtedly our favorite portion of this alpine paradise.
Particularly the stretch between Perfection Lake and Lake Viviane, which is downright magical.
To do that, we’d recommend getting up into the Enchantments on your first night, which means hiking up past Colchuck Lake and climbing Aasgard Pass on that first day. We’d recommend doing this no matter how many nights you have on the trail, truly.
Our second piece of advice is to set up camp within a short walk of one of the privies (backcountry toilets). There are a number of these facilities, including around Colchuck, in the Core Enchantments Zone, and near Snow Lakes.
Now, let’s examine a few common scenarios – two nights, three nights, and four nights – and how we could organize them in terms of camping locations.
- Two nights: Ascend above Colchuck and Aasgard Pass during the initial dusk and spend your initial nighttime near Perfection Lake and Inspiration Lake (which are adjacent to one another). Commit your second date to performing a side venture to either Prusik or Little Annapurna just before packing up and steering down to spend the night either at Lake Viviane or Upper Snow Lakes. The following dawn, awaken and complete the final descent.
- Three evenings: Follow a comparable itinerary to the two night form, but spend your center night at the equal campsite as the initial and employ your additional day to do both side journeys and do some more exploring of the Core Enchantment Zone. You could also employ the extra night to camp at Colchuck, but similar to what we mentioned above, we’d favor to get up into the Enchantments as soon as possible.
- Four evenings:This is where we`d extend the trip by one night at Colchuck to allow seeing sunrise and sunset there. Camp at Colchuck the first night, Perfection/Inspiration Lake for nights two and three (and do day trips to Prusik, Little Annapurna, and Lake Viviane), and the last night at Upper Snow Lake before departing from there.
Things to Know Before You Hike
Mountain goats enjoy human urine. No, they don’t wish to socialize with you – they’re wild animals and require ample space – they seek the salt in urine. Try to urinate in a restroom or on rocks – if urine contacts vegetation, goats may consume it (undesirable for the ecosystem) to obtain that pleasant salty taste.
Water treatment is indispensable. Naturally, a means of purifying water is crucial for multi-day treks into remote regions, but even day hiking necessitates having a filtration method readily available given how much liquid intake is needed while ascending the challenging Aasgard Pass trail.
We are quite fond of our GravityWorks filter from Platypus, and use it on every backpacking trip. You simply fill the “dirty” reservoir from a running water source, and connect it to the clean reservoir (placed below the dirty one) and allow gravity to do its job.
…And probably a means to heat water for nourishment. Again, obvious for backpackers, but we’d also advise a means to boil water for day hikers. Unless you’re transporting seven sandwiches and a quantity of snacks in your daypack, which is possible, but not particularly pleasant. You’re going to desire something approximating a meal, which will necessitate heating water.
, which is (relatively) compact and efficient with fuel while also being swift. Don`t forget a fuel canister!
We`ve also tried various backpacking meals in the past, and the ones we found most satisfying were Backpacker’s Pantry Pad Thai (which we first sampled overlooking Perfection Lake at sunset during this hike) and Good-to-Go Thai Curry.
Hiking the Enchantments in Washington: A Complete Trail Guide
Now that we’ve covered the logistical details you need to know prior to arriving at the trailhead, we’re going to use this next section to discuss the trail itself.
We will provide you with a brief summary of our experience on this hike – including our favorite spots along the way – so you know what to expect when you head out there.
To make consuming this information easier, we will separate this hike into five elements. They are:
- Stuart Lake Trailhead to Colchuck Lake
- Climbing Aasgard Pass
- Aasgard Pass to Perfection Lake and Inspiration Lake
- Lake Perfection and Inspiration Lake to Lake Viviane
- Lake Viviane to Upper Snow Lake
- Snow Lakes to the Snow Lakes Trailhead
In the sections below, you’ll find a description of each portion of the trail, along with the distance covered and elevation gained in each section to help you understand what the hike resembles when you’re actually out there.
Keep in mind that, with this trail, you’re doing the vast majority of the climbing in the first two sections, between the trailhead and the top of Aasgard Pass.
From the top of Aasgard Pass, it’s predominantly downhill, which doesn’t necessarily mean it’s simple.
Stuart Lake Trailhead to Colchuck Lake and the Base of Aasgard Pass
Length: 4.7 miles // Elevation Gained: 2,600 feet
This initial section of trail covers comparable ground to the Colchuck Lake Trail, guiding you from the starting point all the way to the southern extremity of Colchuck Lake, leaving you at the bottom of Aasgard Pass
For more specifics on that section, you can go to the guide we linked to read about it. Essentially, here’s what you need to know.
The climb gets progressively harder as you get closer to Colchuck Lake. You’ll start off on the Stuart Lake Trail on a relatively easy grade through the forest.
Crossing a sturdy wooden footbridge over the creek, the path begins to ascend more vigorously.
A little over half a mile further along the trail you’ll reach the junction where you’ll join the trail taking you up to Colchuck Lake.
You’ll cross back over the creek into a much rockier landscape and the ascent truly starts intensely, climbing 1,500 feet in a mile and a half with a mix of switchbacks and rocky steps (and sometimes both).
The climbing is all worthwhile when you hit the north end of Colchuck Lake and get your first glimpse of that crystalline clear blue (or turquoise, depending on if the sun has crested the peaks that encircle the lake yet) water.
The trail meanders along the western side of the lake, gently rising and falling over a distance of just under a mile to reach the southern tip of the lake.
There are two privies around Colchuck Lake (one at the north end, one about halfway around the lake) if you need to go to the bathroom.
At the southern extremity of the lake, navigating a field of boulders brings visitors to the base of Aasgard Pass, where the second phase of climbing commences to reach the Enchantments area.
Climbing Aasgard Pass
Length: 0.8 miles // Elevation Gained: 2,000 feet
You’ve covered the majority of your climb on the way up to Colchuck Lake, but this stretch of trail represents the other (slightly less than) half of the climb.
We have positive and negative information regarding this section.
On the good news side, remember that the Enchantments are waiting for you at the top of this short three quarters of a mile.
Moving in another direction, if you took this portion as its own hike, it would pretty easily be the hardest hike we’ve ever completed.
There is essentially no clear trail – it essentially involves some minor route finding and scrambling over the entire distance.
We observed accomplishment by retaining left until near the top, and then crossing the little creek where you’ll stumble upon an somewhat formed trail to finish the ascent.
As you’re ascending, it’s somewhat discouraging to see mountain goats leaping effortlessly from rock to rock. Which we observed here on two occasions.
Partnering with fellow trail travelers to navigate this section can be beneficial.
We know that you’ll likely have your head down focusing on your footing – as you definitely should – but it’s worth pausing to catch your breath every now and then and turn around to marvel at the beauty of the Colchuck Lake basin from above.
Upon reaching the summit, congratulations are certainly in order! You`ve completed the most physically demanding section of trail we`ve ever encountered (or frankly heard discussed), achieved the highest elevation of the hike, and it`s all downhill from this point forward!
Plus, the perspectives are downright spectacular looking back at Colchuck Lake.
Aasgard Pass to Perfection Lake and Inspiration Lake
Distance: 1.6 miles // Elevation Decrease: 300 feet
As soon as you reach the top of Aasgard Pass, you will find yourself gazing down at the sea of granite and crystal clear alpine lakes that this region is famous for.
Isolation Lake and Tranquil Lake are nearby, offering pleasant spots to remove packs, filter drinking water, and replenish with snacks or full meals while taking a break.
This is an excellent place to see mountain goats. Remember, they’re wild animals, and you need to keep your distance.
There is also a restroom facility located here near Tranquil Lake.
As a note, we will be referring to elevation changes in terms of what is lost while hiking, as the trail descends in altitude.
From the top of the pass, it’s a slight downhill walk to Inspiration and Perfection Lakes, the latter of which is our favorite lake in the Enchantments.
This location overlooking Perfection Lake would make for an excellent place to set up a camp for the night if hiking in the area, especially on the ridge to the right of where the trail veers left to pass between the two bodies of water.
Another restroom has been situated here at the northeast corner of Inspiration Lake (it`s clearly signposted).
Optional side excursion to Little Annapurna: Depending on your level of energy at this point in your hike, you may or may not be up for a side trip to the top of Little Annapurna, the tallest peak visible off to the right. The path splits to the right at the campsites at Snow Creek, and takes you up to one of the best views in the state (world?). It adds 1.5 miles and 900 feet of climbing to the journey, and is probably best for those staying overnight as a side trip. We skipped it, but we somewhat regret not doing so.
Perfection and Inspiration Lake to Lake Viviane
Distance: 2.1 miles // Elevation Decrease: 300 feet
The stretch from the northern end of Perfection Lake to Lake Viviane represents the final segment of the Enchantments hike in terms of granite and alpine lakes.
From Lake Viviane, the trail descends energetically and you return to the more wooded habitat you began with, so cherish this section!
After leaving Perfection Lake, head to the shore of Leprechaun Lake, the second last lake in this section. Right as you exit Perfection Lake, there`s a great perspective back towards Little Annapurna.
This section is generally calm until almost arriving at Lake Viviane, when the path narrows and steepens briefly, causing difficulties with carrying a backpack.
The shore of Lake Viviane offers a nice mirrored image of Prusik Peak, another great photo opp!
An nonmandatory side excursion to Prusik Pass:Prusik Peak is the sharp peak seen off to the left as one is hiking down to Viviane Lake, and it`s likely one of the most famous of the high mountain locations in the Enchantments region because of its distinctive outline. This added trip takes you up to the top of Prusik Pass (not quite the summit) and increases the distance by 0.6 miles and around 300 feet in elevation gain, offering a more achievable side goal for day hikers (and overnight hikers).
Lake Viviane to Upper Snow Lake
Distance: 2.3 miles // Elevation Decreased: 1,400 feet
The following two sections here are somewhat similar to the first two sections (Colchuck and Aasgard), except you’re descending, not climbing. These next two sections cover the vast majority of the descent.
Suggested Itineraries for Italy (reverse order is acceptable):
This section of trail departs Lake Viviane and immediately starts a steep downhill drop combined with tight switchbacks and bigger descents requiring some climbing. Watch your footing carefully and follow the rock piles as you go.
This section finishes at the western end of Upper Snow Lake, which is another great place to set up camp (as is the spit between Upper and Lower Snow Lake) to rest before beginning the final descent the following day.
There’s a restroom uphill to the right, and many scenic spots can be found (we spent our second night here on the trail). Additionally, plenty of water to filter (though we’d head to Snow Creek above Upper Snow Lake – at the western end – for better water).
Snow Lakes to the Snow Lakes Trailhead
Distance: 7.5 miles // Elevation Decreased: 4,000 feet
This stretch of trail, my friends, provides a very steep elevation change where you`ll lose 4,000 feet over 7.5 miles, which presents a challenge even for the most athletic young people.
To be completely honest, we don’t even really have much detail to discuss here because we had our heads down, putting one foot in front of the other.
Going down will continually involve a steady, albeit steep, decrease the entire way with two sets of switchbacks. One at practically exactly halfway down, and one just before arriving at the trailhead.
Be sure to fill your water bottles at Snow Lakes – you don`t get back to creek level until about halfway through, as the switchbacks take you down closer to the creek, and after that point you`re following the creek for the rest of the way, providing plenty of water access.
Where to Stay near the Trailheads
If you want to avoid a long drive to or from the trailhead on the same day as hiking, then we have good news for you.
Unlike more remote trailheads throughout Washington, there are many lodging options near this trailhead for spending the night.
As we mentioned above, the trailheads are situated just on the outskirts of Leavenworth, Washington, a charming town in the eastern foothills of the Cascades with a Bavarian theme.
It’s a charming small place to spend a day or two either before or after your hike (we’d personally go with after), and there are accommodations to fit a variety of budgets nearby.
We`ve personally camped at Eightmile Campground, which lies along Icicle Road (the road containing both trailheads). You`ll want to reserve there as far in advance as possible, since it`s a popular spot.
There’s also a tiny campground with six first-come, first-served sites and a group site called Bridge Creek Campground, which has accomodations for recreational vehicle users.
If you want to stay in Leavenworth, we also have a personal recommendation there! We like LOGE, who have two locations in Leavenworth
Their Riverside Cabins are the lodgings we’ve individually stayed at and enjoyed. They are a collection of cabins located along the Wenatchee River simply outside of town (a 5-7 minute walk to the heart of Leavenworth), and they are roomy, cozy, have car parking out front, and have a nice set of shared exterior spaces, including a barbecue area.
We have acquaintances who stayed at the Downtown Lodging, which functions more as a hotel/hostel hybrid setup, and they equally appreciated their accommodation. It`s centrally located amongst all the activities, and room configurations align with standard hotel offerings.
Another recommendation we have is visiting Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort, which has a location right along Icicle Road (just a 5 minute drive to Snow Lakes) and provides various room styles, like loft rooms and cabins that include kitchenettes, that will accommodate groups of different sizes.
In addition to the great location near the trailhead, the property is also pleasant, and it’s on our list for a future trip to Leavenworth.
