By Jessie Swider, Reservations Agent
Leavenworth hiking trails are becoming a destination in their own right. More and more people are coming to our little mountain village to experience the breathtaking scenery of the Eastern Cascades. With so many options for hikes in Leavenworth, it can be hard to choose! Whether you want to venture into the hills or stay close to town, here are my top picks.
Icicle Road and The Enchantments
The area just south of downtown Leavenworth is a hikers dream for trail options and the highlight for many adventure-seeking visitors is known as The Enchantments. This system of trails offers a challenging 18 mile trek across some of the most stunning wilderness Washington State has to offer. Completing an Enchantments through-hike is not for the faint of heart or the inexperienced, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a taste of this increasingly popular Leavenworth destination. The start of the trail offers two options for pleasant and doable day trips and is our first pick for Leavenworth’s Best Hike.
Colchuck and Stuart Lake Trailhead
One of two access points into the Enchantments, Lake Colchuck is the gem of this trail system, attracting thousands of hikers every year to see its Instagram-worthy blue waters at the base of striking Dragontail Peak. As someone who grew up in Leavenworth, I’m a little ashamed to admit that I haven’t been to Colchuck, but if you want to experience a bit more solitude, I recommend taking the turnoff to Stuart Lake and having an afternoon at another picturesque lake almost entirely to yourself.
Local tip: Busy is an understatement. The main parking area fills before dawn. Arriving in the afternoon can add another mile or two to your hike! Hikers in spring or fall should check trail conditions and only attempt if they are experienced snow hikers.
Icicle Gorge
A great nearby alternative to Lake Colchuck and the Enchantments is the scenic and leisurely Icicle Gorge Loop. This 4.5-mile, mostly flat loop takes you through the very different ecosystems found on the slopes of the Cascades with informative signs along the route. Several small lookout points make for a great picnic stop.
Local tip: Icicle Gorge is a pet-friendly option for those traveling with their four-legged adventure pals. Dogs are not allowed at Lake Colchuck or in The Enchantments.
Close to Town
Icicle Ridge
The easiest of all the trailheads to access, this hike begins less than two miles outside of town. While it’s a bit of a climb the effort is well worth the birds-eye view of town from the top. Have a pack lunch overlooking the upper valley or be back in town for a bratwurst after this relatively short excursion.
Penstock Pipeline Trail
Another family favorite located in Tumwater Canyon only 2 miles outside of town, cross the tumbling rapids of the Wenatchee River on an old pipeline bridge to explore the other side of the river. The view of the river is awe-inspiring. Complete your trip with a stop at The Alps candy store nearby.
Lake Wenatchee/Plain area
Between the Enchantments, Icicle Gorge and Icicle Ridge, one could be fooled into thinking that the best Leavenworth hiking trails are all located along Icicle Road. But I’m here to tell you that no matter where you stay, great hikes are right around the corner! Lake Wenatchee and Plain have their own fun trails to explore.
Heather Lake
A lesser-known destination, Heather Lake is reached after steadily wandering 3.5 miles up to this scenic little lake west of Lake Wenatchee. The forest here is lush and shady, perfect for staying cool on a hot summer day and the colors in fall are truly stunning.
Hidden Lake
If you’re looking to spend a little time in the forest but aren’t completely sold on this whole hiking thing yet, Hidden Lake is a 1.6-mile (roundtrip) stroll located on the south side of Lake Wenatchee with practically no elevation gain. For relatively little effort you will be rewarded with a small but charming lake. Find a log and bask in the sun before you head back.
Local tip: check for any required parking passes in advance. Not all trails allow you to purchase them at the trailhead.
What are you waiting for?
No trip to Leavenworth is complete without taking in the natural beauty of the Upper Valley. Whether you are a seasoned mountaineer or just looking for a relaxing nature walk, there is something for everyone. And the best part is, these are only just a handful of the best hikes near Leavenworth. Once you hike one of these trails you may just want to extend your stay and try the others. Book one of our wonderful homes today and start exploring!