Before the pandemic, I traveled largely to epic international destinations for hiking. From hiking Macchu Pichhu in Peru to the 10-day Tour Du Mont Blanc in Europe, I sought out mind-blowing scenery. The pandemic however forced me to recreate in my own backyard and little did I realize that I have access to stunning hikes right here in the United States as well! I have spent the last year until now discovering epic hiking trails in the West Coast. I recently hiked to Colchuk Lake on a visit to Washington State. The Colchuk Lake hike might very well be the best hike in Washington. This blog post is a guide to everything you need to know about the best hike (in my humble opinion) in Washington!

Where is Colchuk Lake

The Colchuk Lake hiking trail takes you to a freshwater reservoir lake located on the western slope of The Enchantments, in Chelan County, Washington. The lake is located approximately 15 miles from the city of Leavenworth, Washington and sits on the southeast corner of the Icicle Creek subbasin. Colchuk Lake is often known as one of the gateways to the fabled Enchantment Lakes – an alpine wonderland of pristine lakes, soaring peaks, larches and mountain goats. The Colchuk Lake is one of the best hikes in Washington because of its accessibility and distance – it’s easily doable as a day hike.

Do I need a permit?

The Colchuk lake hike is part of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and can be done as part of a day hike or overnight hike (if you can snag permits). You will still need to fill out a permit (available at the trail head) for the day hike. Just drop off one half of the permit in the box near the trailhead and carry the other half with you.

When is the best time to go

The best time to do the Colchuk Lake hike is during summer and fall. In summer, shades of blue and green dominate while in fall, you will be treated to beautiful shades of yellow and green. This is yet another reason why I think this is the best hike in Washington. Surrounding the lake, lining the base of Asgard Pass, and sprinkled amongst the evergreens are deciduous conifers. What appear to be small evergreen trees to the untrained eye are actually alpine larches (usually called tamaracks by the locals). The needles of these ordinary looking trees turn a bright, golden yellow by the middle of October. This creates a stunning backdrop against the picturesque blue/green lake. Hence I would recommend doing this hike during these two seasons.

What to wear

I went mid-August and wore hiking pants, and a t-shirt. Since I started the hike around 6:45am, I also wore my down jacket but that soon came off once I began hiking uphill. Wear ankle support boots for this hike, as there are tons of rocky areas. I wear Oboz Footwear boots and use trekking poles to help save my ankles and knees (especially on the way back down). Bring bug spray as well.  

Hiking snacks

The Colchuk Lake hike is so picturesque, I highly recommend packing a lunch that you can eat once you reach the lake. I also packed a small bag of dried apricots for an additional snack option and some GU Energy for added energy. I like the GU Energy satchels because they are easy to squeeze directly into your mouth. Just follow with some water. Gu Energy contains simple and complex carbohydrates with antioxidants; plus, it enhances performance with histidine, citrates and branched amino acids.

Parking at the trailhead

Since I was going to the Colchuk Lake trail on a Sunday, I arrived at the parking lot by 6:30am. I was lucky to find a parking spot but the ideal time to arrive is 6am, especially if you’re coming on a weekend. If you go mid-week you could likely arrive by 7am and still find parking. You will also need a 4wd or an AWD that can handle deep potholes, or just make sure to go very slowly. It’s $5 per vehicle per day if you don’t have a recreation pass. There seem to be several parking lots but the closest one to the trailhead is where you want to park so you don’t have to hike the additional miles. The access to various parking lots is yet another reason I consider this hike one of the best hikes in Washington. The trailhead is easily accessed from the last parking lot.

Where to stay near Colchuk Lake

The nearest town to Colchuk Lake is Leavenworth. It’s a cute Bavarian town and has plenty of accommodations. Alternatively there are also two campgrounds:

1. Bridge Creek: Tiny campground with just six sites available, all first-come-first-served. They also have some group sites, which you’ll need to reserve in advance. 
2. Eightmile Campground: 8 miles out of town and located off Icicle Creek, this busy campsite is open to tent and RV camping and has a 60/40% split of reservation and first come, first serve spots. Pricing ranges $22-110.

Trail details

Northwest Forest Pass

Once you arrive at the parking lot, make sure to hang your Northwest Forest Pass in your car’s mirror. If, like me, you don’t have a Northwest Forest Pass, make your way to the information board at the trailhead to obtain a day pass, which will cost you a mere $5 per vehicle, per day. Next, pay attention to the “Keeping Wilderness Wild” board to make sure you understand how to keep yourself safe.

Beginning of the hike

The beginning of the hike starts with an easy and gradual incline for the first mile and a half or so. The area around here is dense and lush and the first few miles are really enjoyable before you begin the climb. On and off, you’ll hear a good roar from Mountaineer Creek and even catch glimpses of it from the trail. Pretty soon you’ll come across a log bridge to cross. Definitely take the time to snap some photos, this is a very picturesque spot. The trail will start to get harder from here.

Why you need ankle support boots

At this point you’ll start to notice exposed roots on the ground and more rocks. This is why I recommend ankle support boots. This can help prevent you from tripping. You’ll soon reach the Colchuk/Stuart Lake trail junction and you will need to go left according to the sign reading “Colchuck Lake Trail #1599”.

Crossing the boulder field

Shortly after the junction you’ll reach another log bridge and cross Mountaineer Creek again. But this time you will see a different terrain in the form of a large boulder field across the bridge, with a rather intimidating ridgeline above. As soon as you step off the bridge, go right. The route may not be obvious but as long as you stick to your lower right, you will find the trail again along the banks of the creek.

Water filtration

You will soon cross a tiny waterfall/stream type area where you can fill water if needed (make sure you have a filtration device handy). Once you cross this area, be prepared mentally for the switchbacks. This is where I took a break to have a GU Energy gel for some additional energy.

The Climb

Now all you have to do is steadily climb upward until you begin to see glimpses of the blue lake and then bam, you’ll be right there! Once you see the lake, head down the various smaller paths down to the shore. You can easily climb on any of the granite outcroppings to get a spectacular view of the lake.

Why go early

Well the most important reason is parking. But the earlier you go, you will also be able to claim a rock for yourself and spend a few hours relaxing by the shores of the lake. You can also swim at Colchuk Lake and I hear late August might actually yield warmer water.

Bathroom access

Toilets are available at the trailhead and also at the lake itself. While I went on the Colchuk Lake trail as a day hike, it is also possible to camp here. You will need a permit to camp at this lake between May 15th and October 31st. Also be sure to check trail conditions before your hike to check for snow, smoke from fires etc.

I think the hike to Colchuk Lake is one of the best hikes in Washington because you hike through a variety of scenery. From lush green forest through bridges, boulder fields, and streams, the final destination is in itself the most spectacular vision. Remember, we each have to do our part in preserving these beautiful destinations. Please take your trash with you and if you see litter, please pick it up. Drop me a comment if you’ve been on this hike…and as always thanks for stopping by!