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Lake Ingalls Trail

Wenatchee National Forest, Washington · 3 min read

Distance
9.2 mi
Elevation Gain
2,800 ft
Difficulty
strenuous
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through October
Est. Time
5-7 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
10 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
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

  • Stunning views of Mount Stuart (9,415 feet) reflected in the lake
  • Alpine larch forest turns golden in October
  • One of the premier October larch destinations without the Enchantments permit competition
  • The lake sits at the base of Ingalls Peak, a popular rock climbing destination
  • Self-issue wilderness permits available at the trailhead for day hikes
lakeviewsalpine meadowrock formationswildflowers

Overview

Lake Ingalls sits at the base of Mount Stuart in the Wenatchee National Forest, offering a front-row view of the largest non-volcanic peak in the Cascades. The 9.2-mile round trip climbs 2,800 feet through the Alpine Lakes Wilderness to a cirque lake ringed by larch forest and granite.

Lake Ingalls is the accessible alternative to the Enchantments for hikers seeking the October larch experience without navigating the competitive Enchantments lottery. The larch display here is comparable to the core zone; the scenery is different (Mount Stuart dominates rather than the Enchantments spires) but equally stunning.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2: Esmeralda Basin approach. The trail begins in the Esmeralda Basin, a wide open valley with good views. The grade is gradual for the first 2 miles.

Miles 2 to 3.5: Headwall climb. The trail steepens as it climbs a rocky headwall above the basin. Switchbacks lead through larch forest.

Miles 3.5 to 4.6: Upper basin and lake. The trail levels into the upper basin. Lake Ingalls sits in a cirque with Mount Stuart rising directly above its south shore. Ingalls Peak (for technical climbers) is visible to the northeast.

When to Visit

July through October. The access road opens in late June or July depending on snow. October larch is the peak draw; expect company even in October. July and August are less crowded but still busy on weekends.

Practical Details

Self-issue permits at the trailhead; overnight permits via Recreation.gov (as of 2026). Vault toilet at the trailhead. For related Wenatchee hikes, see the Enchantments Thru-Hike and the forest guide.

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 strenuous 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

Esmeralda Basin Trailhead on FR-9737 off US-97 near Liberty, Washington. Gravel road, 2WD accessible in dry conditions. Permit required for overnight stays in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness (as of 2026).

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Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is the Lake Ingalls Trail?
Lake Ingalls is strenuous: 9.2 miles with 2,800 feet of gain. The trail is well-marked and maintained but involves sustained climbing and high elevation (6,463 feet). Most hikers take 5 to 7 hours round trip.
Do I need a permit for Lake Ingalls?
Day hike permits for the Alpine Lakes Wilderness are required (as of 2026) and are available as self-issue at the trailhead register. Overnight permits require a reservation through Recreation.gov. Verify current requirements with the Cle Elum Ranger District.
When do the larch trees turn at Lake Ingalls?
Alpine larch at Lake Ingalls typically peak in the last week of September through the second week of October. The lake Ingalls area is one of the more accessible October larch destinations in Washington that does not require the Enchantments lottery.
Are dogs allowed at Lake Ingalls?
Dogs are allowed in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness at Lake Ingalls on leash. This is one advantage Lake Ingalls has over many core Enchantments destinations. Keep dogs on leash in the fragile alpine tundra.