Those undertaking the Enchantments thru-traverse in September should be aware of variable conditions brought by the onset of autumn in the alpine. Conditions can vary greatly this time of year- it is not uncommon for 30+ degree temperature swings to occur in a single day. Be prepared with extra layers for cold, wind, and rain. Even if it is very warm in town, know that mountain conditions change rapidly and often without warning. Keep in mind when planning your hike that over an hour of daylight will be lost over the course of September. Starting early to complete the thru-hike is crucial (Ideally before 6am). This time of year, most average hikers will be completing portions of the traverse in the dark, so be sure to bring a headlamp with extra batteries and extra provisions!
Please remember to pack out every piece of trash you bring into the forest, including toilet paper, do not dispose of things along or off-trail. Innumerable stashes of trash including glass bottles, cans, plastic bottles, food waste, and broken gear are all frequently found behind boulders, wedged under logs, or just off of the main trail. Never place trash in toilets, as it makes them unusable for other hikers.
The Enchantments traverse is considered a very arduous hike with several thousand feet of elevation gain and loss. This trail requires route-finding abilities in addition to high physical endurance. Portions of the trail are not marked or maintained, involve scrambling through granite terrain, and may be difficult for unskilled users to follow. Please know your physical capabilities before attempting this hike and putting yourself or rescue personnel at risk.
There are currently several active wildfires on the Wenatchee River Ranger District. More information about local wildfires can be found at https://www.facebook.com/OkaWenNF Keep in mind that air quality may be considered unhealthy on the AQI scale. Chelan county air quality conditions can be checked at https://www.iqair.com/us/usa/washington/chelan.
Comments
TabTabscott on The Enchantments
No dogs allowed.
Posted by:
TabTabscott on Sep 06, 2025 12:01 PM
Seattle_Wayne on The Enchantments
I completed the thru-hike of The Enchantments at the end of August and went through 11.5 liters of water.
Posted by:
Seattle_Wayne on Sep 06, 2025 05:19 PM
gb981 on The Enchantments
Hi, might you be the volunteer ranger who was stationed at the Snow Lakes TH on Saturday? I chatted with the volunteer (a young gentleman who lives in Leavenworth) about trail conditions, restaurants, and filled out a survey. In any case, our group left a pair of specialty trekking poles at the trailhead. I wonder if you may have taken them to the station or have suggestions on where we should check. Thanks and a million thanks for what you do!!!
Posted by:
gb981 on Sep 08, 2025 01:03 PM
Leavenworth Rangers on The Enchantments
Hello, this is the account for the USFS Enchantment rangers (not volunteers). Your best bet would be to call the Leavenworth Ranger station at (509) 548-2550 on Thursday or Friday of this week (closed Wednesdays). If any staff or hikers have turned in trailhead gear, that would be where to check.
Posted by:
Leavenworth Rangers on Sep 09, 2025 04:44 PM
Loren Drummond on The Enchantments
Thanks as always for the incredible work you are doing on trail and with education, especially this year. Sending you immeasurable gratitude and good vibes. Thank you.
Posted by:
Loren Drummond on Sep 12, 2025 11:10 AM