Colchuck Lake, near Leavenworth, Washington, is a stunning spot for those who love the great outdoors and don’t mind a bit of a hike to get there. This place is all about the views, with a beautiful lake surrounded by majestic mountains, making it a prime destination for backpackers and nature lovers alike.

The hike in is no walk in the park; expect to spend around 6 to 8 hours on the trail, which is a mix of moderate to heavy traffic. Campers have shared that the journey is worth every step, especially when you finally catch sight of the lake and the breathtaking scenery around it. One visitor noted, “It’s definitely still worth it for that view of Dragon Tail Pass.”

Keep in mind, this is a hike-in only area, so you’ll need to pack your own water and supplies. There are no amenities like drinking water or showers, but there are toilets available. Just be prepared for the rustic experience—some campers have humorously warned about the local mountain goats, who can be quite curious about your food and even your pee spots!

If you’re lucky enough to snag a permit, you’ll find a great spot to set up camp with incredible views. Just remember to arrive early for parking, as it can fill up fast. Whether you’re here for a day hike or an overnight adventure, Colchuck Lake offers a slice of wilderness that’s hard to beat.

Colchuck Lake

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Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

The Best Camping Near Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Washington

This campsite is hike-in only. It is located near Leavenworth, WA. It is a popular location, so permits are hard to come by. You can try to reserve a spot in the lottery in February to reserve a permit, or you can do what I did: show up the morning of at the ranger station and hope for a day-of permit. We lucked out, we were one of a few groups vying for the one permit available, and we got it!

The trail access is up a steep pot-hole ridden road and the parking lot, while large, was full. We had to park down the road and pull off as best we could and hope that would work. You need a parking permit, which you can get at the ranger station, or an America the Beautiful pass.

The hike is a challenging one, especially if you are carrying an overnight pack. It's all uphill from the start to the end, but there are many scenic spots to stop and take a rest and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

When you get to the lake itself, you have to keep hiking around to find the open campsite. Be aware, trying to camp here without a permit is not advised: our permits were checked by a ranger up at the lake.

We found a great spot with incredible views, a place to set up the tent and hammock, near the toilet (there are no walls on toilets up in the back country,so be prepared). It was cold and I was glad I knew this.

One of the most beautiful places on this Earth. Be mindful of mountain Goats. They're mostly harmless but keep food sealed away and don't get between them and their babys or they might get pissed. Speaking of piss, they LOVE it, something about the salt,  I don't know, but they will, no joke, fight each other over your pee spot.

Absolutely Stunning, mind the goats though...

Beautiful 4 mile hike up (8 round trip) to the lake. There was a weird smell coming from the river, so maybe don’t drink from it haha. Bring plenty of your own water, also BUG SPRAY. Lots of bugs at the lakeside. It’s definitely still worth it for that view of dragon tails pass.

Lake Colchuck

I would suggest 6 to 8 hours to hike in, sight see around the lake and hike out. Moderate to heavy traffic. Get to the parking lot early or no parking. Reserved parking for those permitted to camp overnight. 

Excellent hike.

I hiked there many years ago just after Saint Helens erupted.  Amazing place. First time I ever backpacked. 

Photos of Colchuck Lake

Real photos from real campers