Colchuck Lake - Beautiful Alpine Wilderness!
Details
We will be hiking to Colchuck Lake near Leavenworth, WA. This is a challenging hike. The total hike distance is about 8 miles (roundtrip), 2300 ft. elevation gain, reaching a highest elevation of 5580 ft.
There are beautiful views of mountain peaks, wildflowers and the relaxing alpine lake!
We'll be making friends, eating right, staying fit, being polite and having fun!
If there is a forecast of heavy rain - or severe smoke - the event may be cancelled.
We can stop in Leavenworth for dinner as well, optionally.
Note: The last three miles is rocky and a vehicle with good ground clearance is needed.
Attendance
We try to keep our group size to around 10 - 15 (more or less) as a courtesy to other hikers on the trail, and in the parking lot by reducing crowds and cars. The Going list may have a larger number to accommodate no-shows.
Folks on the waitlist may not attend until they are moved to the Going List. When folks drop from the Going List, people are added from the Wait list.
Attendees may initially be on the waitlist while more drivers are selected. Drivers may be placed first as going, then we will fill as space allows.
Carpooling
We will first meet at the Wilburton P&R. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.
If you don't want to carpool, and you are on the Going list, you are welcome to meet us at the trailhead (coordinates: 47.52784, -120.82098).
Riders MUST reimburse drivers for gas. Reimburse $35 if one rider, $30 for two riders, $25 for three riders. Cash is preferred, or Venmo or Zelle.
Trailhead Parking
For parking, a Northwest Forest Pass (or America the Beautiful Pass) is required. A NW Forest day pass is $5 - see: https://www.wta.org/go-outside/passes .
Note: The parking lot at the Trailhead may be full, but there is overflow parking along the road about 1/4 mile down.
What to Bring
Athletic clothing & rain gear
Hiking shoes/boots
Water & Snacks & Lunch
Sun protection
Bug Spray!
Swim suit (optional)
Ten essentials!
- See: https://www.wta.org/go-outside/trail-smarts/ten-essentials
Schedule
6:20 am: Meet at the Wilburton P&R (OK to bring morning coffee and breakfast).
6:30 am: Drive to hike parking lot
9:00 am: Arrive at Trailhead
~ 5-6 hours of hiking with stops for food, photos
~ 3:00 pm: Back at trailhead
-> Stop for food / coffee on way back (optional)
~ 6:00 pm: Arrive back at Wilburton P&R (later if stopping)
Links
https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/colchuck-lake
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/washington/colchuck-lake-via-stuart-lake-trail
Attendees: Be sure to update your status if things change so others can attend!!
Disclaimer: When you RSVP and attend this hike you are accepting that you are fully aware that you are responsible for your own safety. Always be aware of your own physical abilities and go on this hike prepared.