Hoping this report helps first timers. I’d read the rules and regulations that I’ll leave a link for with this report - it’s very helpful!
Road: Did it pass the sedan test? Yes, but higher clearance and/or good suspension would be more comfortable. It was VERY bumpy. Watch for those potholes and take your time if you don’t have a car suited for off-roading. Also, if you’re not comfortable without navigation, I’d recommend downloading an offline map of the area before you go as you will lose reception.
Trailhead: Camped overnight in the Leavenworth area in hopes that we could get an early spot. We arrived before 7 on a Sunday and the lot was full, and road was lined already, but as others have mentioned there were some overnight spots left. My sister and I grabbed possibly the last “Hmmm... maybe?” spot in the lot. Remember to only park on the right side of the road (going up) if you need to resort to that! Good news is that the portable bathroom was open if you need coffee to get up earlier for a spot. Even if you are only day hiking or trail running, please fill out the green permit.
Trail: Since this trail is so popular for so many reasons, we saw quite a few people. I’d say only about half were good about their masks though. It was quite cold already when we were starting this early October hike, but I ended up in just a long sleeve on the way up and tee shirt on the way down. The first stretch isn’t too bad. There was some moderate gain, but you can cover a lot of ground quickly. After the footbridges is when I remember things picking up more. Note for some first timers: it’s not tricky to see, but just be mindful to see the sign at the junction so you don’t accidentally go to Stuart. Eventually you’ll get to a second footbridge if you went the right way. You’ll cross a little rocky area right after the second bridge and then things get more steep past that.
My sister used trekking poles and was thankful for it, although I managed pretty well without. There are some sections of rocky, rooty trail, and it is true that it gets steeper as you get closer to the lake. You’ll get nice fall foliage and some views of the peaks to motivate you along the way! There are some large rocks that you can take breaks at too. Other trip reports noted snow but I didn’t see any on the trail or even on the sides of the trail on this particular day.
The Lake: I think I get the same feelings every time I see the lake through the trees and see its blue color. It doesn’t get old. If it’s your first time you’ll see what I mean! I’d really recommend planning to spend some time here. My sister and I got the lake in just under 2.5 hours, including breaks and conversation most of the way. The vault toilets at the top are closed to liquids, but open for solids if I read correctly.
I made hot coffee and rehydrated some lunch with my (liquid fuel) camp stove. A good move it seems because people were asking if we had extra coffee! We enjoyed our little meal as the sun came out, just past 10. I know this seems a bit obvious, but please don’t feed the wildlife. They are very curious (probably from people feeding them) and will come right up to you, but don’t be tempted to share your food! The lake took on different colors before the sun came out, which was cool to witness. Even though it was a bit chilly, we couldn’t resist putting our legs into the water. I’m sure as the month goes on that’ll be harder to do, but the sun was shining and we were actually getting warm!
After thoroughly enjoying the lake we made our way down, which was just about 2 hours.
Link to Enchantment area rules and regulations: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/okawen/passes-permits/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5405903
Comments