Featured In: Day Hiking: Central Cascades, by Craig Romano.
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Set in a granite bathtub beneath spiraling peaks dabbed with shimmering strings of glacial ice, Colchuck ranks as one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in all of Washington. And one of the most popular too! Can you resist the lure of Colchuck's sparkling cobalt waters? Or being mesmerized by her glacial-scoured surroundings that appear right out of the High Sierra? I didn't think so. But before joining the boot-beating brigade, be forewarned. The hike isn't easy. It involves a knee knocking ascent over some pretty steep and rocky terrain.

Immediately entering cool, dark forest, the trail starts off easy enough, following alongside sensory-pleasing Mountaineer Creek. Soon after crossing into the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, transition into open lodgepole pine forest.

On decent tread and good grade, weave through big boulders and cross bubbling side creeks, all while staying within constant eyesight and earshot of tumbling Mountaineer Creek. At about 1.75 miles (elev. 4000 ft) cross Mountaineer Creek on an attractive log bridge spanning deep pools fed by crashing rapids. The trail now begins to climb in earnest-through fields of big boulders, up and around granite ledges, and through open forest granting views of the craggy Enchantment peaks. You'll notice a considerable increase in temperature too on these sun-kissed slopes.

The way eases before coming to a junction at 2.5 miles (elev. 4500 ft). The main trail continues straight for a fairly easy amble to Lake Stuart. Hang left instead for the more challenging and more scenic journey. Cross Mountaineer Creek once again, and then work your way through a boulder field alongside the creek, maintaining balance and dry boots. The trail reenters forest to cross a devil's club-cloaked creek, makes a big sweep up ledges, recrosses the creek, and then heads up a steep rocky stretch, passing a small cascade.

Now ascending a series of granite ledges between steep stretches of rocky and rooty tread, the way continues its abrupt climb. A short drop of 50 feet or so may dampen spirits. But growing views of the valley and surrounding peaks should help recharge them. The sheer volume of scoured granite above and below may give California transplants a Yosemite flashback or two.

But all will rejoice upon reaching the deep rocky pocket cradling the lake. A short spur takes off left 0.1 mile to a small lagoon on Colchuck's south end, where breathtaking views of the backdrop spires Dragontail and Colchuck peaks can be enjoyed. Tucked between that pair of precipitous peaks is the Colchuck Glacier, one of the many icy sources feeding the chilling waters of the lake. Colchuck is derived from the Chinook Jargon meaning "cold water."

Feel free to explore the lakeshore, looking for sunny slabs, perfect for snacking and napping. But treat this area with care. Despite the durable appearance, plants have a tough time surviving in this harsh environment. Keep to rock and use the available backcountry privy if nature calls.