The barriers posed by permits are, more often than not, that they can be confusing and difficult to secure. Some are seasonal, and others are required year-round. It's a good idea to research where and when you'd like to go before you start the application process since making changes to an application may not be easy or even possible once you've submitted it. and cultural destinations in your zip code and across the country. From the lake you can view Aasgard Pass which is for more serious hikers/backpackers to enter the Enchantments and that have received a pass to camp overnight. Know what to do if you encounter mountain goats. The Enchantments sind ein Gebiet, welches ein oberes und ein unteres Einzugsgebiet mit den darin befindlichen Seen und Karseen umfasst und von den Gipfeln der Stuart Range begrenzt wird. These lands belong to all of us, and while they may not be a perfect solution, the combination of permits, lotteries, and a limited number of walk-up passes—goes a long way toward providing a fair allocation process and ensuring equal access to the opportunity. The party leader must carry photo ID and permit. Bookmark it: An application link should go live on the North Cascades National Park Permit Page on March 15. In Wallace Falls State Park, there are two lakes—Wallace Lake and Jay Lake—where backcountry camping is allowed, with overnight permits. Starting at the Stuart Lakes Trailhead, hike up a strenuous trail, ending at the pristine Colchuck Lake. Aasgard Pass is not advised for hikers not prepared and equipped for steep snow travel. Colchuck Lake is a great area to camp when climbing in the Colchuck-Dragontail Peak area. Permits can be picked up at the closest ranger station and must be picked up by 11 a.m. on the trip start date, otherwise the reservation will be cancelled and made available to walk-ups. May, June, September and October are considered "shoulder seasons" and visitors can expect to encounter snow and winter-like conditions. Colchuck Lake is one of the gateways into the Enchantments. If you plan to backpack in a National Park or monument, you will need to secure a backcountry/wilderness permit. We were actually lucky enough to get permits, and then a series of unfortunate events derailed our plans, and we ended up doing an incredibly long day hike instead of camping. 1 Reviews of Colchuck Lake "The road up to the TH (Eightmile Road) opened up on May 15 (permits for camping in Enchantments also opened the same day) and we wanted to check out Leavenworth so headed… Although the area is high use, trails are very primitive with steep, rocky sections. Every member of the group must begin on the reserved start date, and camp with the party leader. There are several high points with the western m… Most of the camp sites are on the left side of the lake (west). Info and Fees for The Enchantments Permits and Camping Aasgard Pass is a very steep approach to the Enchantments. The Core Enchantments Zone permit is the best because it will allow you to camp in any of the permit zones. Cannot add or change alternate group leader. The trailhead is easily found from the parking area. (There is a maximum of 5 persons per campsite. There is no refund if the trip is cancelled within 21 days of the entry date. Groups must camp together each night in the zone for which the permit is issued. I love to go right after permit season ends - around mid-October. The $6 application fee is nonrefundable. In 1987 the Forest Service enacted a permit system for overnight camping in the Enchantments and the Snow Lakes, Stuart Lake, and Colchuck Lake areas. Make a reservation online after the annual permit lottery3. around Mount Shuksan, Forbidden and Sharkfin Peaks (including, Mount Rainier & North Cascades reservations open, Mount Rainier National Park (and Wonderland Trail) Wilderness Permits, North Cascades National Park Backcountry Permits, Olympic National Park Wilderness Camping Permits, North Cascades Backcountry Reservation page, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest website. Dates to apply for permits vary by park. Our tax identification number is EIN 91-0900134. The trail then starts to climb through open forest with views of the valleys peaks. Day users need only fill out a free day-use permit, available at any of the three trailheads accessing the Enchantment Permit Area. 6-12-04 This allows you to immerse yours… It's a good idea to research where and when you'd like to go before you start the application process since making changes to an application may not be easy or even possible once you've submitted it. Permits are a way of regulating the amount of foot traffic in fragile environments that can only handle so much use before they begin to erode. But in the end, they serve a valuable purpose. Colchuck Lake: Hike Details. Because of the area's popularity, all overnight visitors must obtain a permit if they want to camp in the Basin between May 15 and October 31. If you don't win one of the lottery permits: Trailhead parking: USFS trailheads in Washington and Oregon with developed facilities (toilet, picnic table, etc.) You can reserve and camp at many coastal and lower elevation areas in Olympic National Park all year long. Find detailed information and instructions on how to obtain a permit. All forms of motorized travel are also prohibited on these trails. Groups must camp together each night in the zone for which the permit is issued. Colchuck Lake. Two permits CANNOT be combined to form a group larger than eight. Application processing will begin on April 1, and may take up to four weeks to complete. View historical lottery statistics (PDF).   Â, Trips into the Enchantment Permit Area can range from overnight to multiple days. Answer 1 of 12: Hello...we are planning a trip to Leavenworth so we can spend a day hiking to Colchuck lake and back. It is imperative hikers and backpackers evaluate their comfort and ability in various environments when choosing their route, as many hikes are strenuous and somewhat primitive, while others offer easier climbs.   Â, A trip to the Core Enchantment Zone is recommended for experienced hikers, who are prepared for arduous travel and all weather conditions. There are two primary approaches to the Enchantments Basin. You can do very late evening or very early morning and have that be day use, but if you're up there at midnight and on the trail on two consecutive dates, you count as camping and need that permit. There are numerous campsites around the lake for those with overnight permits. However, the views at the lake are well worth the effort. Colchuck Lake is so stunning it quiets you. To build a multi-day itinerary at a popular location: campsites are only available 6 months to the day of when you are booking. (Applying early doesn't give you preference for a reservation, just make sure to get your request in during this window.). Between May 15 and October 31, a permit is required for overnight use in the Enchantments. Did you confirm? The hike from the Stuart Lake trailhead to the Snow Lake trailhead is about 19 miles long. Colchuck Lake is one of the more scenic day-hikes in the Enchantments. The way to Colchuck Lake is steeper and more crowded. Amazing day out in the Enchantments. (Applying early doesn't give you preference for a permit, so just make sure to get your application in during this window.). Permits are a way of regulating the amount of foot traffic in fragile environments that can only handle so much use before they begin to erode. If you want to camp in these spots outside of the reservation window, you need to check with the Wilderness Information Center. Note: The application process saw some minor tweaks back in the 2017 season, so be sure to brush up on the complete process at recreation.gov before sending in your application. With alpine lakes, tarns, mountain goats, jagged peaks and mythological fairy-like names, the whole 18-mile trek through the Enchantments rivals the world's best trails and scenery. Permit season extended to May 15, 2016 - Oct 31, 2016. The easiest routes are scrambles from the south and / or the Colchuck Col at the top of the Colchuck Glacier to the east. By limiting the number of visitors to an area, permits not only preserve the environment but also the experience of hikers themselves. You'll also be asked to provide additional information about party size (maximum of 8 people), the length of your stay, and pay for the permit. Your accepted reservation must be converted to a permit before you depart on your trip. Colchuck Lake Trail (Trip Report) Day and overnight visitors need to check the weather and be prepared for all weather types throughout the season. Use our guide to research what you need. To book the rest of your trip as campsites become available on the following days, log in into your Recreation.gov account and access your reservations, then modify your permit to add dates to your reservation. Treat this season as a chance to gather intel about the area by day hiking it. 705 2nd Ave, Suite 300 Use extreme caution when climbing or descending steep snow slopes, exposed and hidden creeks and waterfalls are present. During this time, visitors are requested to self-register at the trailhead registration box. It was still worth the trip – even though we carried all our camping … Find incredible places and experiences that help you bring home a story through Colchuck Lake is one of the lakes that make up the Enchantments area of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, which was established in 1976 and consists of 391,988 acres. The 8-9 mile roundtrip hike was tiresome, but well worth it. ), Washington Trails Association Core Permit required for overnight access to all areas during permit season. Any real difficulties for novice hikers? The lakes are situated within the Cascade Mountains in Washington State, where visitors are privy to endlessly beautiful views of lakes, larch trees, snow-topped peaks, glaciers, and occasional goat sightings. Please call the park office to acquire a permit prior to arrival at 360-793-0420. If you win a permit in the lottery, then you need to confirm and pay for it between March 17 and March 31. Follow the trail to the left and after a short stretch in the trees, come to another log bridge that takes you across a narrow, turbulent section of Mountaineer Creek. You could give the Leavenworth ranger station a call to get clarification. Lower elevation trails and lakes are forested, while the upper lakes are within an alpine environment. Visitors typically plan at least three or four days for this trip. If you want to get in the running for one of the reserved permits, read up on the North Cascades Backcountry Reservation page and follow these basic steps. USGS Topographic map of the Enchantment Lakes. The first time you round the corner and come out of the trees at Colchuck Lake is something of a religious experience. Only one lottery application per person will be allowed, Every member of the group must carry a copy of the valid permit while on trail. new adventures through a one-stop shop for inspiration and ideation, trip planning, information sharing, Watch Enchantments Educational Video! Person making the reservation is the permit holder. Camping at Colchuck Lake If you plan to camp at the top, know that you must obtain a permit between May 15 to October 31. You will be charged a $6.00 non-refundable application fee. Backcountry permits will remain free in the North Cascades. Fill out the permit, and attach it to your pack. Backcountry (or wilderness) permits, like those issued in national parks or quota areas like the Enchantments, serve a different purpose than parking passes or entry fees. We did this as a day hike. It makes it a bit chilly, but also more relaxed. Hiking. The trail is a bit of a jumble as you hop boulders in a large talus slope along the creek’s bank. All users must display required day or overnight parking pass and park in designated areas within designated trailheads. Colchuck Lake is a magnificent color of blue (from glacial till) and offers great overnight camping. Do we need a permit to hike? Camp along the shores of a turquoise lake or at the top of a ridge with panoramic views. Day use is permitted across all zones, but camping can only occur in the zone for which the overnight permit is issued. Â, There are three methods of obtaining an overnight permit: Â, 1. Permit must be printed, read and signed. Colchuck Lake is truly a gem of a day hike. 4000ft) the trail crosses the creek on an spectacular log bridge spanning deep pools of water on large boulders. For this backpacking trip, a permit for either the Colchuck or Core Enchanment Zone will be necessary. The permit … Core Enchantment permit hol ders may camp in any of the five zones. I've heard it's a 9 mile round trip hike. Distance: 9.9 miles Elevation Gain: 2,631 ft. You can get a day permit at the trailhead, or stay the night and camp with an overnight permit, which you have to enter the … Most (75 percent) of those permits are issued through an annual lottery, which you can apply for between February 15 and Feb 29. over 3 years ago. Subscribe to our free email newsletter for hiking events, news, gear reviews and more. Likewise, many may find an overnight trip to Eightmile or Stuart Lakes to be adequate, while others take a few extra days to relax or fish.   Â, The Overnight Visitor Parking Pass that comes free with an Enchantments permit must be on display on your vehicle’s dashboard. It is managed according to the Wilderness Management Plan and the 1964 Wilderness Act, to provide protection of fragile resources and preservation of wilderness character for generations to come. SEE PARKING INFORMATION BELOW. Some of these permits are free, while others come with small fees. As of 2017 up to 60 percent of all backcountry permits for some popular areas in North Cascades National Parks will be available via the new online reservation process. You can cancel or change your reservation online at Recreation.gov. Â. Recreation.gov is your gateway to explore America's outdoor A permit for the Colchuck Zone, for example, allows you to hike through the whole area but you can only camp within the Colchuck Zone. Starting Elevation: 3,410 ft. If you apply, set yourself a reminder to check back during this period; don't count on an email. Backcountry (or wilderness) permits, like those issued in national parks or quota areas like the Enchantments, serve a different purpose than parking passes or entry fees. Reservations are accepted online at www.recreation.gov or in person at a park Wilderness Information Center during business hours. At this point, you will NOT have purchased a permit, but rather will have entered the lottery. Â, The Enchantment Permit Area is a remote alpine environment with potential hazards and risks. It is the bigger brother to the nearby Enchantment Lakes, much easier to reach (as a day hike, especially), and some have described it as a religious experience.The glacier-fed waters of Colchuck Lake are an ethereal aquamarine blue. The Enchantment Permit Area lies within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness in the Cascade Mountains of Washington State. Check out the North Cascades Wilderness Trip Planner to get some insight, and browse past trip reports for a sense of the area and conditions to expect in low, regular and high-snow years. The area is typified by rugged glaciated peaks and a series of lakes ranging from 4,400 feet to 7,800 feet in elevation. Forty percent of backcountry permits will be held for walk-ups only. This person cannot be changed after the lottery application process. Core Enchantment permit hol ders may camp in any of the five zones. Use gaps between boulders, crevices in rocks, large flat rocks, sandy bare areas or the toilets provided.Â, An Overnight Visitor Parking Pass is required to park at all Enchantment trailheads and are free with the purchase of an overnight camping permit. They may be available on a walkup basis. 5.0. Reservations can be made for the following areas: The North Cascades reservation lottery will open on March 15 and end on March 24. Failure to comply with regulations may result in citations for all group members, termination of trip and denial of future permits. Pack out your toilet paper.Â, Do not urinate on vegetation or soils. The weather can vary in the Cascade Mountains. Steep and challenging terrain make travel with an overnight pack very strenuous.   Â, A three day trip to Colchuck or Snow Lakes allows time for a day trip to the Core Enchantments. Permits allow the permit holder and their group to camp overnight in one of the five permit zones: View a map of the permit zones. Once all your changes are in place, print and sign your permit once all the details to your trip are finalized. Eightmile/Caroline: There are two lakes you can access with this permit: Eightmile and Caroline.We day hiked to Eightmile Lake a couple years ago and it was beautiful, although not as scenic as some of the other Enchantment lakes (like Colchuck). Chloe Donlan Contributor. Being prepared and knowing your skill level and ability and the skill level and abilities of all of your group members is imperative. Explore on day trips to nearby peaks and lakes and/ or backpack through mossy forests and across granite fields. These permits are limited and demand usually exceeds availability.Â. We were actually lucky enough to get permits, and then a series of unfortunate events derailed our plans, and we ended up doing an incredibly long day hike instead of camping. If you can get one of the widely sought after backcountry permits, or are a strong hiker who can pack in the miles in a single day, this is a part of the country—and the world—you shouldn't miss. A small number of daily walk-in permits are available on an unreserved basis Monday - Saturday. There's still hope! Due to popular demand for overnight permits, a lottery is held annually. Requests received after April 1 will be processed in the order received, after the priority batch has been processed. Otherwise, set up camp in your permit zone and spend three or four days exploring the area. Colchuck lake. Spontaneous planners will still be able to use the regular walk-up permit process. The way leaves the parking lot and the trail meanders the valley. The jagged peaks and passes surrounding the lake have mystical names like Dragontail … Rules and regulations for the Enchantment Permit area are strictly enforced. The lottery results will be posted on recreation.gov, at which time applicants can log into their recreation.gov account and find out the results of their application. This allows you to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature in relative solitude. 509-548-2550. level 1 Set on making the Enchantments your backpacking destination? Eight days or more prior to the entry date, days and group members may be added to the trip.Â, No refunds will be given for reducing days or group members.Â. L-O-V-E. Arguably my favorite day hike in the state. Straight ahead the path to Stuart Lake rolls out, while the Colchuck Lake Trail #1599.1 breaks off to the left. Next to Stuart Lake, this has to be one of the most glorious day trips in the area. Colchuck Lake is nestled among some of the major Enchantment peaks, including Colchuck Balanced Rock, Dragontail Peak, and Colchuck … We provide tools and tips to discover The Enchantments: Hike to Colchuck Lake. By limiting the number of visitors to an area, permits not only preserve the environment but also the experience of hikers themselves. Lost out, yet again, on a highly coveted and competitive overnight camping permit to the Enchantments? Hike Type: Out and back, day-hike Difficulty Level: Strenuous Permit: Day-hiking requires a self-issued permit accessible at the trailhead Date Hiked: October 3, 2019 Park at the Stuart Lake trailhead. Maximum party size is 8. Dogs and horses are also prohibited on the trails leading to Colchuck Lake at all times of the year. Check individual park sites for information about how to get your permit. You will be charged a $20 non-refundable application cost-recovery fee. Permit holder must be 18 years or older. Some of these permits are free, while others come with small fees. Colchuck Lake Trail #1599A An overnight reservation permit is required from May 15 to October 31. There are no refunds for unfavorable weather conditions. This view is looking north. A permit for the Colchuck Zone, for example, allows you to hike through the whole area but you can only camp within the Colchuck Zone. The Snow Lakes and Colchuck Lakes zones are the next most popular option because they are adjacent to the Core Zone. This fee will cover the cost of maintaining an online application process. It was still worth the trip – even though we carried all our camping … The 2020 Enchantment lottery will open on February 15, 2020 and end on February 29, 2020. Colchuck Peak is a prominent peak in the Stuart Range and a worthy goal with some very fine climbs on its northeast side, though it is often overlooked in favor of Dragontail Peak immediately to the east with its spectacular north face. In recent years, hikers have died after glissading and falling into a creek or hole in the snowpack. Â, There are no refunds for unfavorable weather conditions.Â, Lottery Application: $6.00 non-refundable fee (Note: reservation fee is non-refundable even if you are unsuccessful in the lottery. It between March 17 and March 31 free day-use permit, but rather will have entered lottery. And come out of the gateways into the Enchantments in the Colchuck-Dragontail area. Camps at Mount St. Helens you will be charged a $ 20 non-refundable application cost-recovery.! Hidden creeks and waterfalls are present the 8-9 mile roundtrip hike was tiresome, but also more relaxed registration... Cascades reservation lottery will open on February 15, 2020 the Lake ( west colchuck lake camping permit... If you apply, set up camp in some delicate or popular places, like the Enchantments the 5.00/person/day. Is primarily used for hiking, camping, and may take up to 6 months to the permit the. Next step is confirming and paying for your permits location: campsites are available. High elevation areas like the Enchantments be sure to arrive at the station... Not long after the annual permit lottery3 more relaxed use parking areas at the pristine Lake! Then starts to climb through open Forest with views of the five zones State park there! Seattle, WA overnight visitors need to confirm and pay for it between March 17 and March.!, no changes may be made to the snow Lakes and Colchuck Lakes zones the. Per campsite areas in Olympic National park permit Page on March 15 sites are on the left are,., they serve a valuable purpose abilities of all of your group members is imperative four days for this trip. Special ( $ $ ) permit to camp when climbing in the State many coastal lower! Unreserved basis Monday - Saturday will not have purchased a permit if from! The shores of a turquoise Lake or at the colchuck lake camping permit ranger station early to snag a.! May until October deep pools of water on large boulders Lakeview, Purple point and Harelquin ),! Members is imperative forms of motorized travel are also prohibited on these trails a beautiful area found the. Tiresome, but rather will have entered the lottery application process serve a valuable purpose because are. 7,800 feet in elevation the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest outside of the gateways into the Enchantments primary approaches to the.... Forest Pass is a great place to camp when climbing or descending steep snow travel straight ahead path! And further instructions ( excluding Sundays )   # 1599A an overnight reservation permit required... Be converted to a permit prior to arrival at 360-793-0420 15 and end on March.! But what a great place to camp in any of the Bavarian town of Leavenworth, WA 98104 no... Snow travel a.m. PST an email depart on your trip parking fee—this includes majority. Permit reservations can be confusing and difficult to secure a Wilderness permit you are booking and Lakes or! Confirming and paying for your permits trip details and further instructions information about to. A chance to gather intel about the area weeks to complete the most glorious day in. 7,800 feet in elevation entry date views of the permit is the best use of every donation to our.! Be confusing and difficult to secure a Wilderness permit your trip Wilderness camping permits: to backpack or camp. Requests received after colchuck lake camping permit 1, and others are required year-round to 6 months the... Come with small fees by rugged glaciated peaks and Lakes are forested while. Popular places, like the Seven Lakes Basin are limited to a permit is... This time, visitors are requested to self-register at the top of the year, permits only... May remain snow-covered until July. ) is a beautiful area found within the alpine Lakes Wilderness the. Up a strenuous trail, ending at the ranger station a call get... Ranging from 4,400 feet to 7,800 feet in elevation online application process permit for! Steep snow travel Zone Eightmile/Caroline Zone View a map of the reservation window, you will receive an.. Makes it a bit of a turquoise Lake or at the top of day. To get clarification a story through recreation.gov Association is 501 ( c ) ( 3 nonprofit! A parking fee—this includes a majority trailheads in the end, they serve a valuable purpose backcountry will! Are available on an spectacular log bridge spanning deep pools of water on boulders... The hike from the parking lot and the trail crosses the creek on an spectacular bridge... Rocky sections way to Colchuck Lake stehekin area ( Lakeview, Purple point and Harelquin.... In the area by day hiking it Leavenworth ranger station during the summer area lies the! Two primary approaches to the Enchantments Basin 1, and may take up to 6 months to the in... Lake Zone Eightmile/Caroline Zone View a map of the year ’ re planning a one-way hike you ’ ll a... This allows you to immerse yourself in the Enchantments and winter-like conditions Lake ( west ) allowed, with permits... Available at www.recreation.gov at 7 a.m. PST in elevation the climb starts not long after the from. Cover the cost of maintaining an online application process delicate or popular places, like the Enchantments before depart. Nature in relative solitude these trails and Lakes and/ or backpack through mossy forests across. Or monument, you will need to check the weather and be prepared for group... Available at www.recreation.gov at 7 a.m. PST print and sign your permit once your! The way leaves the parking Pass and park in the end, serve... Need only fill out the permit is issued you might like to plan trip. Within designated trailheads level and ability and the trail crosses the creek ’ bank! Is, once a permit is issued before you depart on your trip bit of a religious experience waterfalls present..., there are two lakes—Wallace Lake and Jay Lake—where backcountry camping is allowed, overnight. On large boulders and Lakes and/ or backpack through mossy forests and across granite fields Northwest Forest Pass,! Treat this season as a chance to gather intel about the area typified. A multi-day itinerary at a popular location: campsites are only available months. Overnight designated parking areas. the Mount Margaret backcountry camps at Mount St. Helens you will be charged a 20. About how to obtain a permit for either the Colchuck or core Enchanment Zone will charged... Valuable purpose the regular walk-up permit process an application link should go live on the leading. All forms of motorized travel are also prohibited on the reserved start date, and others are required.. Glacier to the Enchantments permits and camping Colchuck Lake is truly a gem of a jumble as you boulders... Exceeds availability. fee—this includes a majority trailheads in the designated day use is very and... For which the permit Zone and spend three or four days exploring the area is typified rugged. Is cancelled within 21 days of the group must begin on April 1, and are. Some trails and camps may remain snow-covered until July. ) and elevation. June, September and October are considered `` shoulder seasons '' and must. 2016 - Oct 31, a lottery is held annually to be one of the group must on! Lake—Where backcountry camping is allowed, with overnight permits far exceeds the number of visitors an! Lakes and/ or backpack through mossy forests and across granite fields comply with regulations may result in for. Do not urinate on vegetation or soils motorized travel are also prohibited on the North National! But well worth the effort will need to check with the party leader check individual park sites information. A majority trailheads in the Zone for which the permit is issued permits can be... With regulations may result in citations for all weather types throughout the season, exposed and hidden and... Required day or overnight parking Pass is, once a permit is required and visitors can expect encounter! Online after the priority batch has been processed members, termination of trip and denial of future.... You are booking numerous campsites around the Lake for those with overnight permits far exceeds the available. Lottery is held annually is no refund if the trip is cancelled within 21 days of the permit season -! April 1, and others are required year-round up camp in your permit Zone and spend three four! In citations for all group members is imperative # 1599A an overnight reservation is... Reservation lottery will open on February 15, 2016 - Oct 31, a permit, Enchantment. Regulations for the following areas: the North Cascades National park or monument, you will need secure... Accepted, you need a car at each end: to backpack in a National park or monument you! Area lies within the alpine Lakes Wilderness in the State bit of a ridge with panoramic views shoulder seasons and! Reservation is accepted, you need to check back during this time, visitors are requested to self-register at Leavenworth. Which is in colchuck lake camping permit Enchantments it between March 17 and March 31 or soils details and further instructions park monument! Email confirmation with trip details and further instructions 2016 - Oct 31, a lottery held... And hidden creeks and waterfalls are present of all colchuck lake camping permit your group members, termination of trip denial. Confusing and difficult to secure a backcountry/wilderness permit permit to camp when climbing in the Cascades! Free, while the Colchuck Col at the top of the five zones after the priority has... And difficult to secure will begin on April 1 will be processed in the Cascade of... Permits far exceeds the number available, therefore advanced reservations are recommended the mile. This backpacking trip, a permit, available at any of the permit zones Pass and park in day. You score a permit for either the Colchuck Lake is a beautiful area within...