Distance: 8 – 9 Miles (depending on exploration)
Elevation Gain: 2,316 Feet
Time: 4.5 – 5.5 Hours
Difficulty Level: Moderate – Hard
Parking: Limited, arrive early for a spot
Dogs: Not allowed
Best Time to Hike: Late June to September
Colchuck Lake Trail
Colchuck Lake Trail is undoubtedly one of the most stunning hikes I’ve ever had the privilege to experience. The reward at the end— a turquoise-blue alpine lake surrounded by towering granite peaks—makes the 8-mile round trip journey absolutely worth it. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a nature enthusiast, Colchuck Lake offers something magical that you’ll remember for years to come.
I actually hiked this trail during a 5-day backpacking trip through the Enchantments, and it quickly became one of my favorite spots along the entire trail. If you’ve seen the pictures online, trust me—they don’t do the lake’s beauty justice. It’s one of those places that makes you blink twice just to make sure you’re really seeing it.
This guide includes all the details you need for hiking Colchuck Lake, from parking to permits, and even some fun things to do in Leavenworth after your hike. So, keep reading if you’re ready to add this gem to your Pacific Northwest hiking bucket list!
How to Hike Colchuck Lake Trail: Everything You Need to Know
Colchuck Lake is tucked away in Washington’s Alpine Lakes Wilderness, and it’s a must-see for anyone looking for a challenging hike with incredible views. Starting from the Mountaineer’s Creek trailhead, the path gradually climbs through lush forests before opening up to expansive vistas. It’s an out-and-back trail, and if you’re planning to do the entire hike, it’ll take you about 4.5 to 5.5 hours depending on your pace and the time spent at the lake.
Before you set out, there are a few things you should know:
Colchuck Lake Trail Stats:
- Distance: 8 – 9 Miles (depends on exploration)
- Elevation Gain: 2,316 Feet
- Time: 4.5 – 5.5 Hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
- Traffic: Heavy (especially on weekends)
- Dogs: No dogs allowed on the trail
Do You Need a Permit to Hike Colchuck Lake Trail?
Yes, you will need an Alpine Lake Wilderness Permit to hike Colchuck Lake. These are self-issued permits that you can grab for free at the trailhead. However, if you’re parking at the trailhead, you’ll also need a Northwest Forest Pass ($5 for a day pass or $30 for an annual pass), which you can purchase online or at the trailhead. If you have an America the Beautiful Pass, you won’t need the Northwest Forest Pass.
Where Is the Colchuck Lake Trailhead?
The trailhead is located about 13 miles outside the Bavarian-style town of Leavenworth, Washington. Stuart Lake Trail shares the same trailhead, and this location is also the starting point for those through-hiking the Enchantments Trail.
Be aware that parking is limited—the lot holds around 40 cars, and overflow parking is available along the road. We arrived around 9:00 a.m. and managed to grab the second-to-last spot, but I’d recommend arriving around 7:00 a.m. to ensure you get a good parking spot and avoid the crowds.
What to Expect on the Colchuck Lake Trail
The hike begins in a lush green forest, offering shade and relatively flat terrain for the first mile. Consider this your warm-up section. The next three miles involve a steeper incline, with rocky terrain, boulder fields, stream crossings, and waterfalls.
The trail is quite popular, and it can get crowded, especially on weekends. If you can, try to visit on a weekday for a more peaceful experience. Keep in mind that hikers going uphill have the right of way, so be courteous and step aside when needed.
At the two-mile mark, the trail splits. The right path leads to Stuart Lake, and the left one continues to Colchuck. After you take the left fork, you’ll encounter switchbacks, which are the most challenging section of the trail.
Swimming at Colchuck Lake
Once you reach the lake, you’ll definitely want to cool off with a swim. Colchuck Lake is an alpine paradise—its turquoise waters, surrounded by majestic granite peaks, make for a truly refreshing dip. I highly recommend throwing your swimsuit into your day pack and taking the plunge after a challenging climb.
Camping at Colchuck Lake
If you’re lucky enough to secure a camping permit, you can stay at Colchuck Lake. Permits are required for camping here between May 15th and October 31st, and you’ll need to enter a permit lottery that opens every year on February 15th.
Things to Do in Leavenworth After Your Hike
After your hike, take the time to explore Leavenworth, a charming Bavarian-style village. Here are some of my top recommendations:
- Icicle Brewing: A perfect place to relax and enjoy a local brew.
- Munchen Haus: Grab a delicious Bavarian sausage and enjoy the live music.
- Wenatchee River Tubing: Cool off with a lazy float down the scenic Wenatchee River.
- Whistlepunk Ice Cream: Treat yourself to unique flavors after a long day.
Image 8: Leavenworth’s Bavarian village, with outdoor seating.
Whether you’re hiking for the day or spending a few days backpacking through the Enchantments, the Colchuck Lake Trail is an unforgettable adventure. Make sure to take your time and fully enjoy the stunning scenery, and be sure to pack in your camera because Colchuck Lake is the definition of a picture-perfect alpine paradise.
If you’re craving more hiking adventures, check out this detailed guide to the Waimano Falls Trail, another hidden gem perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Located on the island of Oahu, this trail offers stunning waterfalls and lush scenery, making it a must-see for those who love exploring off-the-beaten-path spots. You can read all about it in our Hiker’s Guide to Oahu’s Hidden Gem here.”
