Winter Hike to Colchuck Lake

Over the river and through the woods.... and then more woods and a few more rivers and you are there.  

Climbing almost 3000ft in elevation from the trailhead you will arrive in aprox 4.5 miles at the serenity of Colchuck Lake.  Sitting at the base of both Dragontail and Colchuck Peaks, frozen Colchuck lake provides a natural amphitheater rarely glimpsed in nature.  Where you can see from base-to-peak the full expanse of two jagged granite peaks, sustained in natural glory un-intruded by the small town of Leavenworth many miles away.  

Wether you plan to stay the night or take in the afternoon, this hike is well worth the sometimes strenuous effort.  

From the access road branching off of Icicle Creek Road drive until you hit the gate (closed for winter).  Here park your car and begin your hike up the rest of the access road (aprox 2.5-3miles) until you reach the trailhead.  Here you will be at 8 Mile Lake Parking lot.  From here follow trail #1599 - Stuart Lake Trail into the forrest until you reach the junction of trail #1599A- Colchuck Lake, here you will turn left and head across a wooden bridge and Mountaineers Creek.  A prefect spot to stop, to fill water, and to have a break.  From here the terrain becomes much steeper and the snow ruts much deeper.

Note:  The Enchantments are a permit only zone during certain parts of the year (June-Oct).  That being said, make sure you are ware of this prior to heading into that area as it is patrolled regularly to maintain the natural atmosphere and reduce the human impact.

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