Memorial Day Weekend Hike: Colchuck Lake

Let’s hike the stunning Colchuck Lake Trail this Memorial Day weekend! This 8.7-mile out-and-back adventure near Leavenworth features breathtaking alpine views, turquoise waters, and the dramatic peaks of Dragontail and Colchuck. It’s a challenging but rewarding hike (about 5 hours), starting with a forested walk along Mountaineer Creek before climbing rocky switchbacks to the lake. Since it’s a popular trail, we’ll aim for an early start to secure parking—carpooling is encouraged!

Note: Dogs aren’t allowed, so leave your pups at home for this one.

Colchuck and Stuart Lake Trailhead (Coordinates: 47.52776,-120.82081)

Hike Info
Difficulty: Moderate/Hard
Length: 8.7 miles, roundtrip, out and back
Elevation Gain: 2,340 feet
Highest Elevation: 5650 ft.
Location: The Enchantments, NF-7601, Leavenworth, WA 98826

Conditions
Recent reports confirm the road to the trailhead is open and in decent condition (I'll verify with the Forest Service before our hike). There's very little snow left on the trail, but be prepared to navigate over or around several small downed trees along the path - the only minor annoyance on an otherwise clear route.

Note: This hike is weather-dependent; we’ll postpone if conditions are unfavorable.

Parking Permit
For parking, a Northwest Forest Pass (or America the Beautiful Pass) is required. A NW Forest day pass is $5.
https://www.wta.org/go-outside/passes

Carpooling
We will meet at Green Lake P&R and arrange for carpools.
Riders MUST reimburse drivers for gas. Reimburse a minimum of $25 for three riders, $35 for two riders... Cash is preferred, or Venmo or Zelle.

What to Bring
Athletic clothing & rain gear
Hiking shoes/boots
Water, snacks & Lunch
Sun protection
Ten hiking essentials

Schedule
6:45 AM – Meet at Green Lake P&R (carpool assignments)
7:00 AM – Depart for trailhead
7:40 AM – Quick pit stop at Monroe Safeway (coffee, snacks, restrooms)
8:00 AM – Resume drive to trailhead
10:00 AM – Arrive at Stuart Lake Trailhead (FS Road 7601)
10:15 AM – Begin hike to Colchuck Lake
1:15 PM – Lunch break at the lake (30 min – enjoy views & photos!)
1:45 PM – Start return hike
4:00 PM – Back at trailhead
4:15 PM – Depart for Green Lake P&R
~7:00 PM – Return to Green Lake P&R (may be later if we stop for dinner)

Links
AllTrails
WTA

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.