シェラン郡の天然記念物・トップ20

The Enchantments Core Zone may be one of the most popular destinations in Washington state, but those who venture to Lake Stuart may receive the particularly enchanting reward of relative solitude in a highly trafficked area. Most hikers heading into the Enchantments use the Lake Stuart Trailhead, but make it into the Core Zone via Colchuck Lake and Aasgard Pass. However, taking the right trail 2.2 miles from the trailhead will lead you into an adjacent valley with a large, shallow lake at the base of the imposing massif of Mount Stuart.

This is one of the absolutely stunning lakes hidden in Alpines Lakes Wilderness. Better yet, if you have the stamina to continue around Perfection Lake to the north, you can follow the Snow Lakes Trail to a view of Perfection Falls as it drops down more than 20 feet, then slides down another tier into the lake.

The highest point of the Enchantments Traverse, Aasgard Pass from Colchuck Lake is the most popular route to climb into the Enchantments Core. When it is snow free, the route is pretty straightforward and marked with user cairns. It climbs nearly 2,000 feet in a mile over scree and rock. When covered in snow, it is important to stay to the left to avoid the creeks that may not be visible. Poles and microspikes will be helpful, especially if you are going down this route. I would recommend doing additional research on this route before attempting it so that you have a solid understanding of what the climb entails.

This glacier sits at nearly 7,400 feet and is one of the highest in the Park. From here, the mountaintops are incredible, with views of Doubtful Lake all the way up. There are many wildflowers in the spring and plenty of opportunities to take photos of the many mountain goats in the area. It is a great turnaround point or a place to enjoy some alpine camping (a backcountry permit is required). If you are looking for an extended hike, the trail continues to Sahale and Buckner Mountain; however, If you choose to continue, the path becomes very steep with all rock and lots of scrambling.

This is a particularly good spot for views of majestic McLellan Peak, on the far side of the water. These lakes used to be a popular place for people to basecamp within day-hiking distance of the Enchantments, if you didn't get a permit to camp within the Enchantments. But now you need an overnight permit here, too, if you plan to camp between May 15 and October 31. More information here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/okawen/specialplaces/?cid=fsbdev3_053607

Colchuck Lake is a stunningly beautiful destination in its own right, or as a gateway to Aasgard Pass and the Enchantments. It's worth walking south along the lakeshore; there are some dry campsites here that you can use if you have the appropriate permit.

Dishpan Gap is a major trail junction with trails leading to all directions: Bald Eagle Trail and North Fork Skykomish Trail to the west, the Pacific Crest Trail to the south and north and Little Wenatchee Trail (a little further north) to the east. The latter will get you to Little Wenatchee Trailhead. Since this is located in an old burn area, make sure it is not closed. Not that obvious is the fact, that Dishpan Gap is an old cinder cone and has a nice flat area to pitch tents right in the middle.

Cascade Pass is a nice and scenic place to take a break and enjoy the 360 degree views over the Northern Cascades and the pristine lakes below you.