Colchuck Lake Hiking Guide
Are you ready to embark on an adventure that combines a challenging hike with the reward of breathtaking natural beauty? Look no further than the Colchuck Lake hike in the Cascade Mountains of Washington state. This guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to make the most of your journey to this stunning alpine lake.
Trail Overview:
Colchuck Lake Hiking Trail via All Trails
Location: The trailhead begins at Stuart Lake Trailhead. Parking is limited, so be sure to be there early enough to get a spot, otherwise you may be walking more than 8 miles for the hike.
Distance: The round trip distance for Colchuck lake is approximately 8 miles.
Elevation Gain: The hike is a steep and strenuous with some rocky terrain. The total elevation gain is 2,200 feet. If hiking poles are your thing, bring them along on this tough climb.
Difficulty: Colchuck Lake is considered a difficult hike. It is recommended for experienced hikers who are comfortable with elevation gain and rocky terrain.
Trailhead Description:
As mentioned above, be aware that Colchuck Lake is not an easy hike. The trail is steep and strenuous, with a total elevation gain of over 2,200 feet. The hike is around 8 miles round trip. If you're not in good physical condition or don't have much experience hiking, you might want to consider a less challenging trail.
In addition to being physically demanding, the trail to Colchuck Lake is also quite rocky and uneven. Make sure you wear appropriate footwear, such as sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction. It's also a good idea to bring trekking poles to help with balance and stability on the trail. Some of our trekkers struggled a bit along the way, but we are happy to say that we all made it to the top to see the beautiful views!
Another thing to be prepared for is the weather. The trail to Colchuck Lake is open from June through October, but even during the summer months, the weather can be unpredictable. Be sure to check the forecast before heading out, and bring appropriate clothing and gear for the conditions. This might include a rain jacket, warm layers, and sunscreen.
The trail begins by winding through a forest of coniferous trees, is very well defined, and begins to gradually ascend. As you continue about a mile, you will see a beautiful bridge surrounded by trees and a creek. This is a great spot to take a break and enjoy the views and sound of the water rushing by. After the bridge, you will begin into the steeper switchbacks, with continued views of the trees. The higher you go, the more clear it gets, but there is still quite a bit of brush and trees to get through to the lake. Towards the top is where the rocky terrain begins, so take your time and be careful on these parts. Once you get to the top it doesn’t feel like there is much of an ending point. You still have to continue walking along the trees to find an opening to where the lake begins. Once you find a good spot , you can rest up, drink water, eat food, swim and just enjoy the beautiful views around you.
When you arrive at Colchuck Lake, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and crystal-clear waters. If you're planning on swimming or fishing in the lake, be aware that the water can be cold, even in the summer months. Lucas was the only one who decided to take a dive in the cold water, but he thoroughly enjoyed it. If you plan on fishing, be sure to have a valid Washington state fishing license and follow all regulations. We aren’t avid fishers, so it wasn’t necessary for us.
Colchuck Lake is a beautiful destination for experienced hikers who are prepared for a challenging and rocky trail. As a reminder, be sure to wear appropriate footwear, check the weather forecast, and bring necessary clothing and gear. Practice Leave No Trace principles and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Cascade Mountains. Enjoy your hike and remember to download the All Trails app if you want to have a map for guidance.
