Alpine Lakes Wilderness

The Alpine Lakes Wilderness in Central Washington is one of the most famous wilderness areas in the world. It’s home to The Enchantments, Ingalls Lake, Mt. Steward and Peggy’s Pond. I was lucky enough to grow up hiking, camping and hunting throughout this beautiful and primitive area.

An interesting outing is to hike up the heel of the old Cle Elum River Glacier trough to Deception Pass at the top of the headwall. There are many meadows along the bottom of the U-shaped valley and one large lake, Hyas. To the west are 6,700-foot Cathedral Rock, 7,900-foot Mt. Daniel and the glaciers below Mt. Daniel.

After three miles of easy walking along the valley floor, the Trail begins switchbacking up to the Pass at 4,500 feet. Along the way the intersection of the Trail to Robin and Tuck Lakes is passed, one of the more picturesque destinations in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. At the Pass the intersection with the Pacific Crest Trail is met. 

Deception Pass

It is fun to explore the area near Deception Pass in both directions on the PCT. And, make sure to make the short hike to Marmot Lake to the Northwest on a separate trail. There are lots of colorful huckleberry bushes to be seen in the autumn, many holding ripe berries.

After savoring the berries and views, it will be time to make the return hike to the Trailhead. In truth the best vistas are found by Hyas Lake and nearby meadows. All in all the hike is about 12 miles in length with 1,800 feet of elevation gain.

Alpine Lakes Wilderness is a great place to be in late summer and early fall!