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Snow Lakes Trail

Wenatchee National Forest, Washington · 3 min read

Distance
6 mi
Elevation Gain
2,400 ft
Difficulty
moderate-hard
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
June through October
Est. Time
4-5 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
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Twin alpine lakes (Upper and Lower Snow Lake) at 5,400 feet
  • One of the most popular day hikes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness
  • Views of the Enchantments peaks above the upper lake
  • Reliable permit availability compared to core Enchantments zone
  • Lower entry to the Enchantments thru-hike route
lakeviewswildflowersalpine meadow

Overview

Snow Lakes are the most accessible entry into the Enchantments zone of the Wenatchee National Forest, sitting at 5,400 feet at the base of the dramatic granite cirque that holds the famous upper core zone. The 6.0-mile round trip is demanding but rewards hikers with views of the high Enchantments peaks above the lakes and a clear picture of why this area draws so much attention.

For hikers without core zone permits, Snow Lakes deliver a genuine Cascades alpine lake experience with permits that are easier to obtain than the core zone lottery.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2: Lower forest. The trail climbs steeply from the Icicle Creek trailhead through Douglas-fir and pine. The grade is consistent with no flat sections.

Miles 2 to 3: Upper forest and switchbacks. The trail switchbacks through more open terrain with views of the surrounding peaks beginning to appear.

Mile 3: Lower Snow Lake. The lower lake sits in a broad basin. Continue on the trail for Upper Snow Lake, which is slightly more dramatic with better views of the Enchantments.

When to Visit

June through October. The access road to the trailhead is typically open by mid-June. October larch on the upper peaks provides fall color. Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends.

Practical Details

Permit required (as of 2026) through Recreation.gov. For the full Enchantments experience, see the Enchantments Thru-Hike. See also the Colchuck Lake Trail for a different alpine lake option in the same drainage. The forest guide covers the broader Wenatchee hiking landscape.

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

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

← Back to Wenatchee National Forest

More Trails in 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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Guide to the Eightmile Lake Trail in Wenatchee National Forest, Washington. A 6.8-mile out-and-back to a large alpine lake at 4,641 feet in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness near Leavenworth.

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Enchantments Thru-Hike

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Guide to the Enchantments Thru-Hike in Wenatchee National Forest, Washington. A 18.0-mile point-to-point through the most scenic alpine zone in the Cascades, with a lottery permit system.

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Granite Creek Trail

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Icicle Ridge Trail

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Guide to the Icicle Ridge Trail in Wenatchee National Forest, Washington. A 12.0-mile out-and-back above Leavenworth with panoramic Cascades views and access to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.

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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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Lake Stuart Trail

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Guide to the Lake Stuart Trail in Wenatchee National Forest, Washington. A 10.0-mile out-and-back to a large alpine lake at 5,064 feet beneath Mount Stuart in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How hard are the Snow Lakes?
Snow Lakes is rated moderate-hard: 6.0 miles with 2,400 feet of gain. The climb is consistent and demanding but the trail is well-maintained. Most hikers take 4 to 5 hours round trip.
Do I need a permit for Snow Lakes?
Yes. Day hike permits are required for the Alpine Lakes Wilderness at the Snow Lakes Trailhead (as of 2026). Day hike permits are more available than core zone permits. Check Recreation.gov for current requirements.
Are Snow Lakes part of the Enchantments?
Snow Lakes sit below the core Enchantments zone. They are within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness but outside the 'core zone' that requires the most competitive lottery permits. Reaching the core zone from Snow Lakes requires ascending Aasgard Pass.
Are dogs allowed at Snow Lakes?
Yes, dogs are allowed in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, including Snow Lakes, on leash. This is unlike some core Enchantments rules; verify current regulations with the Leavenworth Ranger District before visiting.