Enchantments Mountain Traverse Adventure
CATEGORY
Traverse
SEASON
Summer
LOCATION
The Enchantments, WA
DATE
Aug 18, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: The Enchantments Traverse
Trip Duration: 4 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~28 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: mountainous
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): ~7000 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Stuart Lake Trailhead to Snow Lakes Trailhead
- GPS coordinates: TBD
- Permits: Obtain Enchantments Overnight Permit via recreation.gov
---
DAY 1: Stuart Lake Trailhead to Colchuck Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 4.5 miles, +2200 ft
- Terrain description: Forested trails with rocky sections
- Notable features or side quests: Colchuck Lake views
- Key water sources: Streams near Colchuck Lake
- Campsite location: Colchuck Lake Campground
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear activity; secure food properly
- Trail tip: Start early to secure the best campsite
---
DAY 2: Colchuck Lake to Core Enchantment Zone
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 5 miles, +2700 ft
- Terrain description: Steep, rocky ascent over Aasgard Pass
- Notable features or side quests: Aasgard Pass, Core Enchantments’ lakes
- Key water sources: Upper Snow Lake
- Campsite location: Core Enchantment Zone
- Wildlife or safety notes: Steep drop-offs; proceed with caution
- Trail tip: Allocate extra time for ascent over Aasgard Pass
---
DAY 3: Core Enchantment Zone to Lower Snow Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, -1800 ft
- Terrain description: Subalpine terrain with rocky paths
- Notable features or side quests: Scenic alpine vistas
- Key water sources: Leprechaun Lake, Vivian Lake
- Campsite location: Lower Snow Lake Campground
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for mountain goats
- Trail tip: Take time to explore side lakes
---
DAY 4: Lower Snow Lake to Snow Lakes Trailhead
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 12.5 miles, -2300 ft
- Terrain description: Gradual descent through forest
- Notable features or side quests: Waterfalls near Snow Creek
- Key water sources: Streams along the trail
- Campsite location: N/A (Exiting)
- Wildlife or safety notes: Be mindful of slick trail sections
- Trail tip: Start hiking early to complete the long descent
---
CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Colchuck Lake (~5500 ft), Core Enchantment (~7500 ft), Lower Snow Lake (~5400 ft)
- Fire restrictions: Fires prohibited; use stoves only
- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear canisters or hang food
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Core Enchantment Zone, Colchuck Lake
- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate to high traffic areas
- Nearest water source: Lakes and streams near campsites
---
WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 40-75°F (Aug.)
- Sun exposure: Limited shade, high UV risk
- Acclimatization tips: Hydrate and rest frequently above 7,000 ft
---
GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)
List tailored to terrain and season
- Navigation tools (map, compass)
- Water filtration system
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- First aid kit
- Fire starter and matches
- Pocket knife
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Shelter system (tent, tarp)
- Insulating layers
- Nutrition/snacks (high-calorie options)
Pro tips:
- Lightweight trekking poles for stability on rocky terrain
- Layer with merino wool for temperature regulation
---
OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Explore Little Annapurna
- Photo-worthy moments: Sunrise at Colchuck Lake
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Leavenworth dining
---
FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 6-10 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Early rise, rest after sunset
- Estimated calories burned per day: 3000 calories
- Water needed per person: 3-4 liters
- Recommended pack weight range: 30-40 lbs
---
Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.
Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.
Missions: Field Debriefs
Every mission here has been completed, but the terrain still speaks. Proceed with respect.
