The Colchuck Lake Trail, located in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness near Leavenworth, WA, is a stunning and rewarding day hike. Here’s a concise overview:

• 🌲 Length: roughly 8–9 miles round‑trip (AllTrails: 8.7 miles; others cite ~8 miles)

• ⛰️ Elevation gain: about 2,200–2,300 ft; with most gain packed into the last 1.5–2 miles .

• 🏔️ Difficulty: Rated “moderate to hard.” Trail begins easy, then becomes steep, rocky, and rooty, especially near the lake.

🥾 Trail Highlights

• Walk through lodgepole pine forest following Mountaineer Creek, crossing on a log bridge around 1.5 miles in.

• Reach a junction: left to Stuart Lake, right to Colchuck Lake. From here, the climb intensifies through switchbacks and rocky sections.

• Final push reveals Colchuck Lake—a breathtaking turquoise gem fringed by granite, rising peaks, and glaciers. Dragontail and Colchuck Peaks tower above the lake.

• You can hike along much of the east shore (~1 mile) with spots for swimming, rest, or photography

• For experienced hikers, the trail continues to Aasgard Pass into the Enchantments basin, though it’s extremely steep and not part of the core day hike.

📝 Essentials to Know

• Permits and Fees: Day hiking requires a self-issued Alpine Lakes Wilderness permit and a Northwest Forest Pass or $5 day permit.

• Parking: Trailhead lot holds ~30 vehicles, half reserved for overnight permit holders—arrive early (pre‑7 AM on weekends!). Overflow parking along the access road adds ~1 mile each way.

• Road access: Final ~4 miles on a rough, pothole‑filled forest road—most standard cars can manage if driven slowly.

• Restrictions: No dogs allowed. Limited or no cell service near the lake.

🌅 Why it’s worth the effort

• The first glimpse of the vibrant aquamarine lake, backed by jagged granite peaks and glacier remnants, is unforgettable

• The trail offers varied terrain: lush creekside forest, alpine scrub, granite slabs, and dramatic vistas—visible year-round, but especially spectacular in summer and fall larch seasons

• It’s the gateway to the Enchantments, giving a taste of alpine wonders without committing to a multi-day trek