Colchuck lake trail is one of the most sought after trails in Washington and every Washingtonian has this on their list definitely. We decided to do this trail, Early summer in July 2020. This trail on alltrails app is described as a toughie and since this was the first trail for both of us this summer, we asked a few of our friends to join in as well. All in all, we were very excited for our trail. This post should help you plan for this trail, if you are like us, we always prefer to be over prepared for undertakings like these.
Reach Early
From our extensive research, days ahead of our hike, we knew we had to reach early. The parking spots are extremely limited, like 30 spots, for evidently a very popular trail. Most people will find parking on the right side of the road leading up to the trail-head if you reach there early in the morning. And by early, we mean 6 am is almost too late to find parking within 1 mile of the trail-head. Since we live in Seattle, we left at 3 am in the morning and we were at the trailhead by 6 am, just in time to find parking on the side of the road. If you are not a early person, a good alternative is to stay in Leavenworth(~30 min away) or spend the night at the trailhead in your car!
Trail Difficulty
Ok so we don’t have anything to prove this, mainly because our Samsung watches gave up mid-trail, but this trail is easily more than 9 miles, as claimed by All trails. We have both done difficult trails in the past but this is right up there in terms of difficulty, mainly because the entire trail is one big climb to the top.
The trail starts off next to a creek and then progressively climb a couple of hilly features and cross many small bridges, to reach a boulder hill. Fret not, as you don’t have to climb this. You will hike around this hill, realizing that this is only halfway, and then climb a couple more hills to finally begin your last and evidently the toughest part of this course.
But as you make your way to the top you will no doubt realize, this is all so worth it. As your face is slapped with the Alpine breeze, brushing itself on top of the azure lake and making its dent on the surrounding mountain tops, We realized this may be the most beautiful lake we have hiked to in all of Washington and probably all of America.
Colchuk lake is a badly kept secret, there will be others with you as you admire its beauty. But you will find a spot here to sit, relax and drink in all of its picturesque views. We spend about 2 hours at the lake, enjoying our lunch, mainly protein bars, and walking around it to find new spots to enjoy this lake from. But alas, we reluctantly agreed to make our way back so that we could ahead of evening rush. The way back, as you may have guessed, is all down the hill.
Some Tips
If you are not a regular long and difficult trails person, you will get tired. While that may not be a very valuable insight, on this trail there is plenty of views on the way to the lake that are worth stepping aside and enjoying them at the same time getting some valuable breathing break.
A really good pair of well cushioned shoes will be most needed for this hike. You will thank me on your way down from the lake. Hiking sticks will be handy too.
Bugs, and all kinds of them call this part of Alpine Wilderness their home. Its best to go prepared as you will encounter them on your way to and back from the lake. Although Bears shouldn’t be unexpected, because this is a heavily trafficked trail, you can do away without a bear spray.
And Finally, be responsible for all the trash that you are creating on this trail and pick after yourself.
Travel Stories by Nia 