Everything you need to know to backpack (and get permits for) Colchuck Lake in the Washington Enchantments. This guide does a deep dive on camping at Colchuck, including permits, campsite picks, and Aasgard day-trip tips from locals who've done it.
A complete guide to hiking Lake Stuart, the Enchantments' quieter alpine lake. Same trailhead as Colchuck, a gentler trail, and a real shot at solitude even on busy summer weekends. Everything you need is here: trail stats and elevation, seasonal conditions, parking and permits, gear recommendations, and answers to the questions hikers ask most before heading out.
Leavenworth, Washington is the perfect mountain town for a weekend getaway — Bavarian charm, world-class hiking, just a couple hours from Seattle. From Colchuck Lake to rock climbing in Icicle Canyon and a soak at The Springs, this is exactly how we spend our weekends in our favorite Washington mountain town. Here's the itinerary to make the most of every hour.
Canyon Crest Trail is a local favorite and hidden gem just five minutes from downtown Leavenworth. A 3.5-mile loop with valley views, spring wildflowers, and no crowds. With very little elevation gain, this is also a great hike for families.
No permit lottery, no crowds — just 35 miles of remote Washington backcountry. This complete guide covers the Cathedral Pass Loop through the Chewuch River valley to Upper Cathedral Lake, including a 4-day itinerary, campsite breakdown, Cathedral Peak scramble beta, and gear recommendations.
Every hike and must-see viewpoint in Valley of Fire State Park, ranked and reviewed from firsthand visits. Fire Wave, White Domes, petroglyphs, and more — plus exactly what to skip if you're short on time.
Icicle Ridge is a great half-day hike in the town of Leavenworth, WA. Just 1.5 miles from downtown, this moderate 4.8-mile trail climbs to a stunning viewpoint overlooking Leavenworth and Tumwater Canyon. Trail info, parking, seasonal tips, and what to pack.
Skip the permit lottery and day hike to Colchuck Lake — turquoise water and granite peaks in the Enchantments. Day hike guide covering permits, gear, and trail conditions.
The best wildflower hike near Leavenworth, Olalla Canyon Ridge bursts with balsamroot and lupine each spring. Trail info, parking tips, and 2026 bloom timing inside.
Everything you need to pack for backpacking the Enchantments, from the big three to clothing layers, camp kitchen, and gear we've personally tested on multiple trips into the Core Zone.
Discover the 7 best balsamroot and wildflower hikes near Leavenworth and Wenatchee. Expert timing tips, trail details, and stunning spring bloom locations in Central Washington's Cascades.
Complete the Enchantments day hike, or full thru hike/traverse, without worrying about the permit lottery. Learn how to tackle Aasgard Pass, explore Colchuck Lake and the Core Zone, and descend via Snow Lakes with tips, pacing strategies, and gear recommendations.
Discover the best places to stay in Leavenworth, Washington; from downtown Bavarian-style inns and cozy cabins to campgrounds near the Enchantments. Find lodging for hiking, festivals, and family getaways all year round.
Backpacking the Enchantments is one of Washington’s most challenging and rewarding alpine adventures. This guide covers everything you need to know to hike in 2026, including permits, routes, Aasgard Pass, gear, and the best time to go.
Backpack Buckskin Gulch and Paria Canyon in Utah on this ultimate slot canyon adventure. This comprehensive guide covers trail options, permits, camping, gear, and safety tips, helping you plan a safe and unforgettable Southwest backpacking experience.
See Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park while it’s temporarily filled with water. Learn when to visit, what to expect, and tips for exploring Manly Lake.
Backpacking the Wind River High Route in Wyoming. 8 days and 108 miles on and off trail, here is your guide to the route along with our full itinerary.
The Sawtooths in central Idaho are a backpackers paradise. Here is everything you need to know to backpack the Alice-Toxaway Loop.
If you are looking for a short road trip through the mountains of Colorado, this is it! Everything you need to know to drive the Million Dollar Highway with a night of camping in the middle.
Everything you need to know to hike Mount Elbert, Colorado's highest 14er — trail map, gear list, where to stay, and safety tips from someone who's done it.
We trail ran the Grand Canyon from the South Kaibab trailhead to the Bright Angel trailhead, 20 miles in one day. Full trip report and everything you need to know to plan your own trip.
The best of the best, these three hikes will get you amazing views of Sedona. If you are planning a trip to Sedona, add these hikes to your bucket list.
Full itinerary including hikes, view points, and camping for spending 24 hours in Death Valley.
Explore Valley of Fire State Park with our complete travel guide. Discover scenic hiking trails, ancient petroglyphs, camping tips, guided tours, and easy day trips from Las Vegas.
Recently, my partner and I spent a long weekend in Spokane, WA to explore the local climbing areas and state parks. Here is a list of my top five outdoorsy things to do if you visit the Spokane area.
Summer is the best time to explore Leavenworth's trails, once the high country fully melts out and the days are long. This guide covers 9 of our favorite summer hikes in the area, from the turquoise waters of Colchuck Lake to quiet ridgelines out toward Cashmere and the Entiat. Whether you're planning a quick afternoon hike or the full Enchantments in a day, you'll find something here to fit your trip.