Hiking the Enchantments in Washington Wilderness

The Enchantments:

Cost: Free for a day hike. You’ll need a permit for overnight camping, and they are ‘won‘ on a lottery basis.

Distance: 21.5 Miles (Some claim 19 miles, It’s not true.) You’ll have to hike the whole thing in 1 day and need one car at each parking lot. Our hike was 4am-9pm.

Funky Fact: The Enchantments is home to over 700 alpine lakes and ponds.

The Enchantments in Washington Wilderness is a highly sought-after hiking destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Located in the heart of the Cascades Mountains, this area boasts stunning views, crystal clear alpine lakes, and a diverse array of flora and fauna. If you’re planning a trip to the Enchantments, here are a few things you need to know.

First and foremost, the Enchantments is a wilderness area, which means that it is protected and preserved by the government. As such, it is important to follow Leave No Trace principles while hiking through the area. This means packing out all trash, respecting wildlife, and minimizing your impact on the environment.

In order to hike the Enchantments, you’ll need to obtain a permit from the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The permits are issued on a lottery basis, so it’s best to apply well in advance of your planned trip. There are also quotas in place to limit the number of hikers in the area each day, so it’s important to be prepared for the possibility of not receiving a permit.

Once you have your permit in hand, it’s time to start planning your route. The Enchantments is a long and challenging hike, so it’s important to be in good physical shape before attempting it. There are several different trails that lead into the Enchantments, so you can choose the one that best fits your ability level and desired route.

One of the highlights of hiking the Enchantments is the stunning views you’ll encounter along the way. From the top of Little Annapurna, you’ll be able to see the entire Enchantments basin stretched out before you. The alpine lakes in the area are also a must-see, with their crystal clear waters and vibrant colors.

In addition to the natural beauty of the area, you’ll also have the opportunity to spot a variety of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for marmots, pikas, and other small mammals, as well as birds like the golden eagle and the peregrine falcon. The Enchantments is also home to a variety of wildflowers, including lupine, paintbrush, and mountain heather.

Hiking the Enchantments is a truly unforgettable experience. It’s a challenging hike, but the views and natural beauty you’ll encounter along the way make it well worth the effort. Just be sure to respect the wilderness and follow Leave No Trace principles to ensure the area remains preserved for generations to come.