The Enchantments Traverse
A 19-mile granite basin of alpine lakes, larches, and goats between Colchuck and Snow Lakes — the hardest permit in the Cascades.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to The Enchantments Traverse, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
- Region
- Washington, USA
- Country
- United States
- Biome
- Alpine granite basin (2,200 m)
- Best season
- Late July – early October
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Backpacking
- Hiking
- Climbing
- Winter Camping
- Skiing
Key takeaways
- Biome: Alpine granite basin (2,200 m)
- Best season: Late July – early October
- Difficulty: moderate
- Top activity: backpacking
Topic summary
A 19-mile granite basin of alpine lakes, larches, and goats between Colchuck and Snow Lakes — the hardest permit in the Cascades.
Key takeaways
- Difficulty: moderate
- Best season: Late July – early October
Intended uses
backpacking
Climate suitability
Alpine granite basin (2,200 m)
Verification notes
Last verified January 1, 1970.
Plan with verified data
The Enchantments Traverse trip tools
Popular pursuits at The Enchantments Traverse
- Backpacking
Multi-day travel with everything on your back — see the packing blocks below.
- Hiking
Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.
- Climbing
Rock and alpine lines with approach beta.
- Winter Camping
Cold-season travel and camp craft; layering matters more than mileage.
- Skiing
Ski-touring access when the road closes for the season.
