A Beginner’s Guide to Hiking the Enchantments (2025): Permits, Planning, and More!
The Enchantments in Washington’s Alpine Lakes Wilderness is one of those places that feels like it belongs in a dream. With its turquoise lakes, golden larches (in the fall), and rugged mountain peaks, it’s no wonder this area is on every hiker’s bucket list. But let’s be real—scoring a permit through the lottery system can feel like trying to win the lottery itself. After years of trying (and failing), I’ve learned there are still ways to experience this magical place.
Whether you’re dreaming of a thru-hike, a day trip to Colchuck Lake, or just exploring nearby trails, this guide has you covered.
The Enchantments, Alpine Lakes Wilderness
My Enchantments Journey
2018: The Thru-Hike That Tested My Limits
In 2018, when I first heard of the Enchantments it was far too late in the year to try for permits. I was determined to go even though I hardly possessed the hiking endurance or the skill to tackle something of that nature. At the time, the longest hike I’d done was 20 km, and I was entirely unprepared for the challenge of Asgard Pass. But with a lot of determination (and some naïvety) I convinced my then partner that suffering through The Enchantments was the only thing I wanted for my early October birthday, (thankfully he had more than enough skill for both of us to survive that poor decision). We drove down from BC, parked at the Snow Lakes Trailhead, and caught a predawn shuttle to the Stuart Lake Trailhead. Hiking in the dark, we reached Colchuck Lake just as the sun was rising—a moment I’ll never forget.
Colchuk Lake, The Enchantments
Asgard Pass was no joke. The light dusting of snow made it feel like we were climbing into another world. By the time we reached the top, the wind was howling, and I was freezing. We found a bit of shelter, warmed up with some soup, and pressed on. The Core Zone was otherworldly—golden larches, turquoise lakes, and curious mountain goats. But the descent through Snow Lakes felt endless. My watch died, leaving me with no idea how much further we had left to go and after 12+ hours of hiking, I’ve never been happier to see our truck. It was a true test of endurance, but absolutely worth it.
Enchantments Core, Alpine Lakes Wilderness
2023: A day Hike to Colchuk Lake
Fast forward to 2023, and we returned with our 2-year-old daughter. This time, opting for a day hike to Colchuck Lake. With the trailhead ever-incresing in popularity, we arrived at the trailhead sometime around 5:00 AM to secure parking. We were slow moving through the forest, which seems a lot longer this time around, but still managed to make it to the lake in time for sunrise. We explored around the lakeshore for a few hours before heading back to the truck. Even if you don’t make it to the Core Zone, Colchuck Lake is breathtaking.
That being said, I can’t wait to return and explore the full trail with our family in the future. Hopefully I’ll eventually luck out in the lottery!
Colchuck Lake, The Enchantments
Permit Options for the Enchantments
Between May 15 and October 31, a permit is required for overnight use in the Enchantments. Permits allow the permit holder and their group to camp overnight in one of the five zones:
Core Enchantment Zone
Snow Lake Zone
Colchuck Lake Zone
Stuart Lake Zone
Eightmile/Caroline Zone
View a map of the permit zones.
Groups must camp together each night in the zone for which the permit is issued. Core Enchantment permit holders may camp in any zone. Day use is permitted across all zones.
There are three methods of obtaining an overnight permit:
1. Apply during the annual advanced permit lottery.
2. Make a reservation online.
3. Use a location-enabled mobile device to apply to the Enchantment Permit Area Daily Lottery
Find detailed information and instructions on how to obtain a permit.
**Visitors may only obtain ONE permit, per season.**
The Enchantments, Alpine Lake Wilderness
Key Dates for 2025
Trailheads and Shuttle Services
There are two main trailheads for the Enchantments:
1. Stuart Lake Trailhead
Access to Colchuck Lake and the Core Enchantments via Asgard Pass.
Parking is limited—arrive early or use the shuttle.
FR 7601 is a high-alpine forest service road and as such closes to vehicles during the winter season. Always be sure to check the status before you go. If the road is closed or the upper parker lot is full you will add over 10 KMs each way to your hike.
2. Snow Lakes Trailhead
Access to Snow Lakes and the lower Enchantments.
This is the end point for thru-hikes.
Snow Lakes, The Enchantments
Shuttle Services
Seasonal private shuttles runs between the two trailheads, making thru-hikes easier. Reserve your spot in advance, especially during peak season (July-September).
The Enchantments, Alpine Lakes Wilderness
Hiking Options in the Enchantments
1. Thru-Hike (Stuart Lake to Snow Lakes)
Distance: ~18 miles (29 km) one-way
Elevation Gain: ~4,500 feet (1,372 m)
Difficulty: Strenuous
Highlights: Colchuck Lake, Asgard Pass, Core Enchantments, Snow Lakes
Time: 10-14 hours (depending on fitness and stops)
Asgard Pass:
A steep, rocky climb with ~2,200 feet of elevation gain in just 1 mile.
Class 3 scrambling in some sections—be prepared for loose rock.
Core Enchantments:
A surreal landscape of alpine lakes, larches, and mountain goats.
Take your time to explore and soak in the views.
Snow Lakes Descent:
A long, relentless downhill section with boulder fields and switchbacks.
Pace yourself and stay hydrated.
2. Day Hike to Colchuck Lake
Distance: ~8 miles (13 km) round trip
Elevation Gain: ~2,300 feet (700 m)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Colchuck Lake, views of Dragontail Peak and Colchuck Peak
Time: 4-6 hours
This is a great option if you don’t have a permit or are hiking with kids (like we did in 2023). The lake is stunning, and the trail is challenging but manageable for beginners.
Asgard Pass, The Enchantments
Fitness and Training
The Enchantments is not for the faint of heart. Here’s how to prepare:
Fitness Level Required
Thru-hiking the Enchantments requires excellent endurance and strength.
You should be comfortable hiking 10+ hours with a heavy pack (if camping).
Suggested Training
Build up to hiking 15-20 km with significant elevation gain.
Incorporate strength training (focus on legs and core) and cardio (running, cycling).
Practice hiking with a weighted pack to simulate carrying camping gear.
Deuter Pack from ROIRecreation
Deuter Pack from ROIRecreation
What to Pack
For a detailed packing list, check out my What to Pack for a Backpacking Trip blog post.
Here are the essentials:
Clothing: Layers (base, insulation, shell), hiking boots, warm hat, gloves
Gear: Backpack, trekking poles, headlamp, map, compass, first aid kit
Food: High-energy snacks, meals (if camping), electrolyte tablets
Water: Filter or purification tablets (plenty of water sources along the trail)
Other: Sunscreen, bug spray, camera, bear canister (if camping)
Camp Howard, Leavenworth
Camping Options
Nearby Camping Before/After Your Hike
Eightmile Campground: Close to the trailheads, first-come, first-served.
Lake Wenatchee State Park: ~30 minutes from Leavenworth, great for families.
Nason Creek Campground: Quiet and scenic, near Lake Wenatchee.
Our Favourite VRBO: Camp Howard
Located just outside Leavenworth, this cozy cabin is perfect for pre- or post-hike relaxation.
Amenities include a hot tub, fire pit, and stunning mountain views.
Icicle Ridge, Alpine Lakes Wilderness
Alternative Hikes Near the Enchantments
If you can’t get a permit, don’t worry—there are plenty of other incredible hikes in the area:
1. Icicle Ridge via Fourth of July Creek
Distance: ~12 miles (19.3 km) round trip
Elevation Gain: ~4,370 feet (1330 m)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Wildflowers, mountain views, and fewer crowds.
2. Jade and Pea Soup Lakes
Distance: ~22.5 miles (36.2 km) round trip
Elevation Gain: ~5,613 feet (1,711 m)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Two stunning alpine lakes, great for a day hike or overnight.
3. Lake Ingalls
Distance: ~9 miles (14 km) round trip
Elevation Gain: ~2,500 feet (760 m)
Difficulty: Moderate-Strenuous
Highlights: Golden larches in fall, mountain goats, and panoramic views.
The Enchantments, Alpine Lakes Wilderness
Final Tips
Start early to avoid crowds and heat (especially on Asgard Pass).
Check weather conditions and trail reports before you go.
Leave no trace—pack out all trash and respect wildlife.
Whether you’re thru-hiking the Enchantments or exploring nearby trails, this area is a hiker’s paradise. With proper planning and preparation, you’ll have an unforgettable adventure.
Happy hiking!
