Lake Ingalls — Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023

Fall is here and in full swing!

Overview:

This is a classic PNW hike that seems to get more and more popular each year (and for good reason). The drive is not too burdensome. The trail is in great conditions and while a good elevation gain, is doable by anyone with the time. And the payoff is big. Subalpine meadows, massive peaks, beautiful alpine lake. Mountain goats. And of course, the larches.

Larches:

The larches are prime right now. Could not hit it at a better moment. Especially considering the wonderful weather we are having. Likely only another week or so of them at this brilliant golden color before they start to turn and shed.

Road/Parking:

Directions on WTA are spot on. The teanaway road will eventually transition into the typical gravel/dirt road that we encounter frequently on hikes. You have a solid 30+ min of this before reaching the trailhead. Fortunately, the road is in great condition and can be passed with any car. As well, there are lots of fall colors to see as you ascend through this final section. 

Parking is a real issue here this time of year. Given that this is one of the better and more accessible larch hikes, it will fill up and get busy. I arrived at about 7:45am and the lot was already full and people were starting to park along the road. Fortunately, an overnighter left right when I was pulling up so I parked on the edge of the actual lot. By the time I finished the hike and was driving out, parking along the road was backed up a solid mile (just shy of touching the Iron Peak trailhead down the road a bit). Lots of people did not pull over far enough so getting out was tight. Would recommend getting to the trail extra early or trying to start a little later (noon or later perhaps?) so that parking is not an issue for you. That or be prepared to add some distance when you park down the road.

Trail Conditions:

The trail is in great condition. Started off a little chilly but quickly warmed up as you immediately begin pushing up hill. The first 1.5miles is forested and shaded from the rising sun so it will be cooler at first. Through this section there is a ton of great fall foliage to see. Lots of bright red underbrush and golden ferns. Once you hit the junction to longs pass, keep left and you will be more out in the open. When the sun peaks over the ridge, this section gets nice and toasty. But you now have wonderful views of surrounding peaks to enjoy. Eventually you’ll even be able to see Adams and Rainier. Once you cross the top of the ridge you are immediately rewarded with beautiful golden larches as well as epic views of Stuart. Throughout the basin you will get more and more wonderful views, eventually walking through the thick of the larches in what feels like a fairy tale. Continue up to the lake if you wish (a worthwhile destination but no larches) or find a quiet rock to sit and enjoy the larches here.

Note that at one point, dogs were not allowed past the junction between Ingalls and Esmeralda (I remember there was a sign here). It appears that dogs are allowed all the way to just shy of the ridge where there is now a big sign before cresting the ridge that says no dogs allowed. Please respect this sign, the basin is not suitable for dogs.

Conclusion:

This is an awesome hike any time of year. But especially when you are rewarded with the golden larches. Be prepared to enjoy it with other people and park respectfully.

After the hike, enjoy a coffee, beer, or food in Roslyn or Cle Elum! There are a handful of wonderful spots for a post hike treats!