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Lake Stuart Trail

Wenatchee National Forest, Washington · 3 min read

Distance
10 mi
Elevation Gain
1,600 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
May through October
Est. Time
5-7 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
6 / 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

  • One of the longest and most gradually graded alpine lake approaches in the Leavenworth area
  • Large lake at 5,064 feet with room to spread out along the shore
  • Views of Mount Stuart's north face across the lake
  • Less demanding elevation profile than neighboring Colchuck Lake
  • The forest approach through old-growth cedar and fir is exceptional
lakeviewsold growthwildflowers

Overview

Lake Stuart is the gentler sibling to Colchuck Lake in the Wenatchee National Forest, sharing a trailhead but following a much less demanding elevation profile to a large, serene lake at 5,064 feet beneath Mount Stuart's north face. The 10.0-mile round trip is long but the 1,600-foot gain spread over 5 miles makes it one of the most approachable alpine lake hikes in the Leavenworth area.

The approach through old-growth Douglas-fir, western red cedar, and Pacific silver fir is one of the finest forest walks in the Wenatchee. The lake itself is large enough that even on busy summer days, the shoreline provides ample room for solitude.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2: Shared approach. The trail starts at the Stuart Lake Trailhead and shares the first 2 miles with the Colchuck Lake route. The old-growth forest begins immediately and continues most of the way.

Miles 2 to 5: Stuart Lake spur. At the junction, stay right for Lake Stuart. The trail continues up the valley on a gradual grade, crossing streams and passing through open meadows near the end.

Mile 5: Lake Stuart. The lake is large with a long north shore accessible for camping and day use. Mount Stuart rises above the south shore. The lake reflects the peak on calm mornings.

When to Visit

May through October. The lower elevation means snow clears earlier than Colchuck or the Enchantments. September is often the best month for clear weather and lighter crowds.

Practical Details

Permit required (as of 2026) through Recreation.gov. See also Colchuck Lake Trail for comparison. The forest guide covers all Leavenworth-area hiking options.

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 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. Same trailhead as Colchuck Lake. Large paved lot; arrive early on summer weekends. Day hike permits required.

← Back to Wenatchee National Forest

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Colchuck Lake Trail

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Guide to the Colchuck Lake Trail in Wenatchee National Forest, Washington. An 8.0-mile out-and-back to a stunning turquoise alpine lake at 5,570 feet beneath the Dragontail and Colchuck peaks.

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Eightmile Lake Trail

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Lake Ingalls Trail

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Guide to the Lake Ingalls Trail in Wenatchee National Forest, Washington. A 9.2-mile out-and-back to an alpine lake at 6,463 feet beneath Mount Stuart, the largest non-volcanic peak in the Cascades.

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Snow Lakes Trail

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Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is the Lake Stuart Trail?
Lake Stuart is rated moderate: 10.0 miles with only 1,600 feet of gain. The gentle grade makes the distance feel manageable, though 10 miles is still a full day for most hikers. Allow 5 to 7 hours round trip.
Is Lake Stuart easier than Colchuck Lake?
Yes. Lake Stuart gains only 1,600 feet over 5 miles (compared to Colchuck's 2,200 feet over 4 miles). The grade is gentler and the approach is longer. Lake Stuart is typically recommended for hikers who want an alpine lake with less sustained climbing.
Do I need a permit for Lake Stuart?
Yes. Day hike permits for the Alpine Lakes Wilderness are required at the Stuart Lake Trailhead (as of 2026). Check Recreation.gov for permit availability and current requirements.
Is Lake Stuart good for swimming?
The lake is a popular swimming spot on warm summer days. The water is cold (snowmelt fed) but swimmable in July and August. There is no prohibition on swimming at Lake Stuart.