The World I Never Knew - Exploring the Enchantments
Coming from the Ozark Mountains, I did not know what the definition of mountains truly looked like in the West. Growing up in Southern Missouri was a world of its own. Rolling hills and cornfields was the scenery I felt I’d never escape. I didn’t even think about the Rocky Mountains or the Cascades. Moving to Idaho opened up many doors for me to explore and it was, undoubtedly, the best choice I ever made.
After being in Idaho for just a few weeks, I heard a coworker talking about The Enchantments. Fascinated, and a little dumbfounded, I asked all about it. I found out that The Enchantments are in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area and part of the Cascade mountains in Washington. I was half shocked and half embarrassed that I did not know that this type of geography existed in the United States, just a few hours from where I was currently living. After a little digging, the photos online were stunning. A visit to The Enchantments got filed in the back of my head and I went on with life. It wasn’t until the fall of 2022 that I got to witness The Enchantments face to face.
In October 2022, with two amazing friends by my side, we set off on the nearly four-hour trek to Leavenworth, WA. Leavenworth is a Bavarian-style mountain town, with a story of its own, but that will be for another day. For this trip, Leavenworth was just the base camp for our adventure.
In the early morning hours, still a little tired from our sleepover the night before, my friends and I took a photo, smiling ear to ear, at the trailhead sign of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Stuart Lake Trail. This trailhead not only leads to Stuart Lake but also to Colchuck Lake, which was our destination. This hike is about 9 miles, with 2,300 feet of intense elevation gain.
That day was sunny, crisp, and just the right amount of cold. Jagged mountain tops surrounded us, bathed in sunlight alongside the bright blue sky. The melodious chirping of birds filled the air and took away the sting of the strenuousness effort we were giving on the trail. The cool air of that October morning was a welcome relief. Just a few miles into the hike, the sound of roaring water filled the air as Mountaineer Creek crashed into the rocks and dirt below. The log bridge that crossed this creek had a wet, wood smell that reminded me of Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri. The smell of a familiar place back home coupled with the sound of the water flowing over the rocks was calming and reassuring to me I was in the right place. We hiked on, the sound of our boots like quiet drumming across the wet dirt, the trees swayed in the wind like friends waving and welcoming us to the land. Heavy breathing quieted our conversations and soon my friend pointed out a Gray Jay (also known as a Canada Jay). This is a small grey and fluffy bird that can survive in cold climates in even the harshest winters. We all gazed in awe. I realized that sometimes I am so caught up in trying to be fast on the trail that I miss little details and amazing wildlife. I made a mental note to stop and enjoy the journey to the destination.
The trail eventually forced us to climb over some boulders and rocks along a creek bank; it was the beginning of the steep finish to the top. As we gained more elevation, a thin layer of snow sprinkled the trees, resembling powdered sugar dusted on a cake. The best part of the trees were golden larches shining brightly, adding a touch of magic to this land. I’d never seen so many larches of that color before. Fall really was upon us.
As we finished the last stretch, the landscape revealed a stunning turquoise lake. Its transparent waters showcased a mosaic of rocks beneath, while the snow-capped mountain peaks added an extra touch of magnificence to the scene. We got the best of the seasons that day, soon we plopped down for a snack after burning all those precious calories getting to the top. As I admired the lake next to me, I noticed how the water shimmered like stained glass, reflecting the vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape.
After we soaked in the glory of our hard work, we began our descent. I couldn’t help but think what was next after this triumph. The amount of beauty in this one place was nothing short of incredible. More beauty like this is out there and I found myself determined to find it.
The Colchuck Lake hike is a blissful storybook experience and one of my all-time favorite hikes, one I would elect to do repeatedly.
It’s a privilege to be on these mountains, breathing in the crisp air, enjoying a gorgeous view at any angle.
After this adventure, I bought more hiking books, hung maps as part of my wall decor, and my imagination expanded to what else was out there to explore.
This was the world I never knew, and I look forward to exploring new worlds. Don’t get stuck in the mundane; look beyond the veil and explore a new world.
Additional information: The Stuart Lake Trailhead in Leavenworth, WA provides access to Colchuck Lake. The Enchantments (which encompass Colchuck Lake) are part of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness area and to camp here, you must have a permit, which is accessed by lottery only. Please respect this area and others. It is a pristine area of the Cascades, and please Pack It In, Pack It Out.
Suggestions: Bring plenty of water and food, you’ll be hungry during/after this hike. Trekking poles are a helpful hand on this trail. Remember that although this is a strenuous hike, don’t let that stop you. Going slow and enjoying the hike is important. https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/colchuck-lake
To learn more about Canada Jays check out: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Canada_Jay/overview