USA Enchantments

Enchantment Lakes or Enchantments is alpine area near Leavenworth WA. Most hikers consider it to be the most beautiful part of the Cascades.

Amazing photo opportunities including long exposures, astro photography and fall colors.

Access is not easy and includes a grueling climb of Aasgard Pass. Multi day backpacking trip(3-5 days) is recommended to be able to capture the beauty of this area.

Backpacking permits can be obtained at:
http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/okawen/passes-permits/recreation/?cid=fsbdev3_053607

Prussik Peak is one of the prominent Peaks in the area and is very photogenic.

Trail starts at Stuart Lake Trailhead. To reach the trailhead, turn onto Icicle Creek Road from US2 on the very western edge of Leavenworth. Drive 8.4 miles and turn left onto Forest Service Road 7601. Follow the bumpy, sometimes potholed dirt road 3.7 miles to the Stuart Lake trailhead. Parking for about 20-30 cars and a toilet are available in the lot. Northwest Forest Pass required.

Note that FR 7601 from Icicle Creek Road to the trailhead closes during the winter, typically from November to May, making for a short summer hiking season.

Trail is approximately 21 miles long with multiple options for side trips and peaks to climb for additional vantage points.