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Colchuck Lake Trail

Wenatchee National Forest, Washington · 3 min read

Distance
8 mi
Elevation Gain
2,200 ft
Difficulty
moderate-hard
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
June through October
Est. Time
4-6 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
8 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Flush Restroom
Parking
Fee Required
Cell Service
Limited
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Turquoise glacial lake at 5,570 feet beneath Dragontail Peak and Colchuck Peak
  • The most accessible glacier-fed turquoise lake in Washington
  • Lower entry point to the Enchantments for those without core zone permits
  • The rock-and-ice west face of Dragontail Peak is a dramatic backdrop
  • Less demanding than the full Enchantments thru-hike but with comparable lake scenery
lakeviewsglacierrock formations

Overview

Colchuck Lake is the most accessible glacial turquoise lake in Washington, offering Enchantments-caliber scenery without the competitive core zone lottery. The 8.0-mile round trip delivers a view of one of the most dramatically situated alpine lakes in the Cascades: a turquoise pool at 5,570 feet directly beneath the 8,700-foot rock-and-ice face of Dragontail Peak.

The lake serves as the entry point for those ascending Aasgard Pass into the Enchantments core zone. For hikers without core zone permits, Colchuck Lake itself is a fully satisfying destination.

The Wenatchee National Forest and the Alpine Lakes Wilderness protect this drainage. Permits are required year-round for day hiking.

The Route

Miles 0 to 3.5: Forest approach. The trail starts at the Stuart Lake Trailhead and climbs through old-growth Douglas-fir and western red cedar. The Stuart Lake junction comes at mile 2; stay left for Colchuck.

Miles 3.5 to 4: Boulder field. The maintained trail transitions to a boulder field approach to the lake. Navigation is marked with cairns. The boulders are stable but require attention.

Mile 4: Colchuck Lake. The lake appears suddenly as you top the boulder field. The turquoise water and Dragontail's west face are immediately arresting. A rough trail circles part of the lakeshore.

When to Visit

June through October. Snow may cover the upper approach into early June. October larch at the upper basin add golden color. July and August are the most crowded months; weekday visits recommended.

Practical Details

Day hike permit required (as of 2026) through Recreation.gov. Flush toilet at the parking lot. For the full Enchantments experience, see the Enchantments Thru-Hike. The forest guide covers all major Leavenworth-area routes.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Safety Considerations

The moderate-hard rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Wenatchee National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.

Trailhead Parking

Stuart Lake Trailhead off Icicle Creek Road, Leavenworth. Large paved lot; arrives early on summer weekends. Day hike permits required for the Alpine Lakes Wilderness (as of 2026).

← Back to Wenatchee National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is the Colchuck Lake Trail?
Colchuck Lake is rated moderate-hard: 8.0 miles with 2,200 feet of gain. The first 4 miles are sustained climbing through forest and talus; the final section crosses a boulder field to the lake. Most hikers take 4 to 6 hours round trip.
Do I need a permit for Colchuck Lake?
Yes. Day hike permits for the Alpine Lakes Wilderness are required at the Stuart Lake Trailhead (as of 2026). Permits are available through Recreation.gov and at the trailhead kiosk. Overnight stays require a different permit with reservation. Verify current requirements with the Leavenworth Ranger District.
Why is Colchuck Lake turquoise?
Colchuck Lake's turquoise color comes from glacial flour, fine rock particles ground by the Colchuck Glacier above the lake and suspended in the water. This reflects blue-green wavelengths of light. The color is most vivid in summer when glacial melt is highest.
Are dogs allowed at Colchuck Lake?
Dogs are allowed in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness on leash. The boulder field approach to Colchuck Lake can be challenging for dogs. Keep dogs under control near the lake to protect the fragile shoreline vegetation.