Sign up for our free email to join thousands of readers getting epic travel, hiking, camping and gear ideas every week. This alpine lake is glacier fed. At mile eight you’ll reach a remote basin, where you’ll find the forested Lower Wildcat Lake. Nestled in a rocky basin high on Mount Daniel, Spade Lake is one of the least visited lakes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness due to it's distance from the nearest trailhead. If you happen to strike out on The Enchantments lottery, don’t worry — you’re still in luck. WTA offers information about hiking the Alpine Lakes, such as trail length and elevation gains, along with a travel article accompanying each featured hike. Don’t forget to pick up an Alpine Lakes Wilderness map before you head out into the thick of it. Restrictions: Wilderness regulations apply. Why you should go: A short yet challenging overnighter to the scenic Hyas Lake and cloud-piercing Cathedral Rock. In order to access this trail you must first hike in along one or more other trails. The trail starts with a … “This trail is a total slog,” says Jimmy Fanning on AllTrails. En route, you’ll wander along decent tread that meanders through cedar groves, rocky slopes, and at times swampy terrain. Glacier worn rocks, pristine lakes, craggy snow covered peaks, subalpine larches, and salt loving mountain goats all reside here. While Jade Lake doesn’t draw in the crowds quite like Snow Lake, it’s just as spectacular nonetheless. This expansive basin has 2 lakes plus a waterfall, unparalled solitude, and makes for a great practice for off-trail navigation Why you should go: Visit Snow Lake, Gem Lake, Lower Wildcat Lake, and Upper Wildcat Lake on an epic two-day trek. Best trails in Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Washington | AllTrails Following is a list of our favorite hikes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Additional Info: Washington Trails Association. As the trees thin, views of the rugged Cathedral Rock and Granite Mountain appear upon the horizon. But first, the trail starts from Snoqualmie Pass and into the Commonwealth Basin, with old-growth forests and more great vistas of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Day use permits are free and are self-registered at the trailhead. A great out and back that covers just over 14 miles, through the Alpine Lakes Wilderness area that will be sure to not disappoint, as you will pass 4 lakes, numerous streams, and huge views of the surrounding mountains and jagged peaks that make this close in section of wilderness a fan favorite. Push past the hoards of hikers flocking to Snow Lake and find peace trekking out to Upper Wildcat Lake. Why you should go: A gentle stroll to a natural waterslide and waterfall that the kids will be crazy about. Alpine Lakes High Camp As other reviews state, this is far from a luxury resort experience! Hikers, mountain bikers, and swimming hole enthusiasts will all find the Opal Creek Trail accessible and enjoyable. When you’re picturing the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, the name says it all. Starting at the Cle Elum River crossing, you’ll begin your journey through old-growth forest. Also, be on the lookout for mountain goats. Territory Supply is reader-supported and may earn a commission when you book or purchase using our links. Perhaps this is why many of the places possess mystical names like Dragontail Peak. Less than a mile from the natural waterslide, Keekwulee Falls is best enjoyed in the afternoon when a healthy dose of direct sunlight means waterfall rainbows may be in sight. This amazing lake got its name due to azure waters that flow from Lynch Glacier. The Alpine Lakes Wilderness is home to a variety of ecosystems, including fragile alpine habitats. Why you should go: Visit one of the most popular and scenic lakes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. As you climb to the top, you’ll be traveling along the south face of Granite Mountain through avalanche tracks and a sensitive alpine ecosystem. The trail quickly becomes steeper and rockier. You’ll wind through old-growth forest and mountainous snowfields, with each unique landscape eliciting its own wonderment. Also, keep in mind that Section J is remote. The towering peak of Cathedral Rock sets the mood for the pristine waterfall-fed Deep Lake resting below. As you break from the forest, you begin your switchback through open meadows. If you find descents hard on the knees, consider opting to do the loop clockwise. But the whole package includes old growth forest, gorgeous wildflowers, and stunning views into the Alpine Lakes Wilderness from both sides of the pass below Kendall Peak, where the Katwalk begins. Resources. The Snoqualmie to Stevens Pass section of the PCT is purely breathtaking. Hikers will encounter a variety of alpine ecosystems, ridgetop views, and of course the deep blue lake — but not without a steady climb first. Why you should go: The holy grail of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. There isn’t a hard-and-fast rule about using one over the other based on the season. From here you'll gain impressive views of Lundin Peak and Red Mountain. If you happen to be hiking early in the season, be prepared to encounter snowy slopes. Beginner backpackers will appreciate the relatively gentle grade out to the lake. With camp on the shores of this beautiful backcountry lake, this BCRT provides a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act by joining us on a project that will help keep the trails in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness in great shape. “It will take some heart and determination.”. This includes most trails accessed from I-90 and on Highway 2 west of Stevens Pass. When she’s not tapping away at her computer you can find her exploring trails with her partner Taif. That is the true beauty of Snow Lake--how readily it shares the splendor of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Seen in: Backpacking, Hike, Pacific Northwest, Washington. Dogs also must always be on leash on many trails in the popular Alpine Lakes Wilderness. For those looking to extend their journey, pack about nine more miles into the trip by trekking out to Waptus Lake. For 67 miles you’ll traverse the Alpine Lakes Wilderness while encountering numerous lakes, meadows, jagged peaks, and old-growth forest. Number one on this bucket list, The Enchantments are what legends are made of. For 67 miles you’ll traverse the Alpine Lakes Wilderness while encountering numerous lakes, meadows, jagged peaks, and old-growth forest. The Alpine Lakes Wilderness is a wilderness area located in the central Cascade Mountains of Washington. While it may be tempting to stay, the apex of your journey is right around the corner. These maps incorporate an incredible amount of detail, from topo to forest roads to trails. Even so, it is worth the effort of hiking on some stretches of rough, steep trail to experience the serenity and see the rich turquoise water of this lonely lake. This beautiful section of Central Cascades features dozens of lakes. Along the way you’ll pass by Gem Lake tucked below Wright’s Mountain. Don’t let the crowds turn you away from this uber-popular destination. Best suited for the experienced hikers, Granite Mountain is a solid day romp for those seeking exhilarating terrain. The Alpine Lakes Wilderness is a large wilderness area spanning the Central Cascades of Washington state in the United States.The wilderness is located in parts of Wenatchee National Forest and Snoqualmie National Forest, and is approximately bounded by Interstate 90 and Snoqualmie Pass to the south and U.S. Route 2 and Stevens Pass to the north. Join 80,000+ adventurers getting epic travel, camping and hiking ideas every week. Day use and overnight wilderness permits are required for several of the hikes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. The largest of these are Marmot and Jade Lakes, to the north, Hyas Lake to the east and Spade, Circle, Venus, and Deep Lakes to the south. Another quarter mile beyond, you reach the junction to Granite Mountain. Travel Articles. The 15 Best Hikes in the Mount Baker Wilderness. Daniel is surrounded by lakes. The trail to the lake is well maintained and very much an alpine lover’s dream. Roughly one mile in, you reach a sign informing you that you’ve entered the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. There's not much out here except cactus and rugged mountains. Alpine Lakes Wilderness Permit Application Application is for the Enchantment Lakes, Stuart, Colchuck, Snow, Eightmile Lakes areas. No roads cross the trail here, which means no resupplying. Grab a snack and take in the view because the smooth sailing won’t last. Carissa is an outdoor freelance writer who loves nature, yearns for a good campfire, and lives for the next adventure. Several social trails lead to campsites, with the south side offering some of the best. This spot is a family favorite thanks to its easy-breezy trail grade and refreshing swimming hole. The aim of Alpine Lakes High Camp is to get you close to the beautiful wilderness and it excels at doing that. Wilderness Permits required for day-hiking within the reservation area, as well as day use and overnight trips in other areas of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, are available on a self-issue basis at trailheads. Difficult creek crossings, snowy terrain, and grueling switchbacks all lie ahead. If you encounter a mountain goat, keep your distance. Rock climbers swarm here for the famous Cashmere Crags, and backpackers are drawn by the majestic landscape of The Enchantments. Beginning at Tuquala Meadows, you’ll climb gently through the forest to Hyas Lake. The trail climbs gradually across Source Creek Valley, before launching into some steep switchbacks to the ridge-top. Hike by WTA Correspondents: John Soltys. Lakes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness are protected within the Wenatchee National Forest or Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.A list of notable lakes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness is shown, below. Take a dip in the cool water and pitch your tent lakeside. The trail to the left continues to Pratt Lake, but take the fork to the right and begin climbing in earnest. Lakes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness are protected within the Wenatchee National Forest or Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Like any great backpacking trail, the reward is worth the grind. One of the most strenuous portions is Aasgard Pass, where you’ll gain around 2,000 feet in less than a mile. Watch your footing and stay on the trail. A Hike to Lake Talapus See our editorial process to learn more. Territory Supply is reader-supported and may earn a commission when you book or purchase using our links. You can easily fall through snow as it melts. To approach from the North, take the Pacific Crest Trail heading south from Steven’s Pass to the Icicle Creek Trail to the start of the Chain Lakes … Rather, it’s a case-by-case decision that comes down to the expected weather conditions and your personal preferences. There are only a handful of routes you can take, all of which demand every ounce of strength you’ve got. Be prepared, however, for a notable amount of elevation change. The Alpine Lakes Wilderness is a large wilderness area in the North Cascades mountain range, located in northern Washington state, the Northwestern United States. Deep Lake is a promising overnighter for alpine lake enthusiasts and backpackers with a couple trips under their belt. Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. For overnight permits, check with the ranger station or reserve a wilderness permit online at Recreation.gov. The trails to Jade Lake will also take hikers to Marmot and Clarice lakes, The extraordinary Enchantment Lakes Basin is worth every huff and puff of the way. A list of notable lakes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness is shown, below. If you’re traveling, please check state and local COVID-19 guidelines before booking. These are the Phoenix-area trails most likely to make your dog's tail wag. This 10.5-mile out-and-back in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness leads to Larch Lake, a backcountry pool rimmed with larch trees and 7,000-foot peaks. As the crowds thin out past the lake, you’ll encounter Lemah Creek. Caution: in the summer you may find a thin surface layer of snow with nothing beneath it. Words don’t do The Enchantments justice. Why you should go: A moderate trek out to a striking turquoise blue glacier-fed lake. Native to the Cascades, relocation efforts have been underway to remove invasive Olympic mountain goats to the Cascade region, increasing their population size. Maine is playfully nicknamed “Vacationland,” and at Acadia National Park you’ll quickly see why. The cloud piercing Cathedral Rock and Mount Daniel are certainly the highlights, while the alpine meadows, river valley, and tranquil Hyas Lake aren’t too shabby themselves. 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