It’s a different and beautiful landscape in snow. And there aren’t any permit restrictions.
Category Archives: Enchantment Basin Thru Hike
Day hiking through the Enchantment Lakes Basin: A local’s guide
Through-hiking the Enchantments in one day will challenge and reward you, but it’s not for everyone.
When is the best time of year to day hike through the Enchantments?
If you’re looking for an outstanding summer hiking experience, the best time to go is when the snow has melted off the trails but before the weather turns sour in fall.
How bad really are the mosquitoes in the Enchantment Lakes Basin?
If you’re day hiking through the Enchantments, here’s how to be prepared for the bugs.
How’s the smoke in the Enchantment Lakes Basin?
Here are some online resources for researching smoke and air quality levels in the Enchantments.
What is the best footwear for through-hiking the Enchantments?
I know someone who did the whole hike barefooted. But I recommend shoes or boots
Where can we swim on our Enchantments hike?
Upper Snow Lake and Nada Lake will be the warmest lakes, relatively. The south shore of Upper Snow is mostly beach. The south end of Nada is smooth granite.
What about transportation for our Enchantment Lakes thru hike?
There are ways to avoid an eight-mile road hike between the Snow Lakes and Stuart Lake trailheads after a long day on the trail. Here are the details.
What should we carry in our packs on our day hike through the Enchantments?
Hikers traverse the Enchantment Lakes with everything from full backpacks to running vests holding only water and an InReach. Here’s the common wisdom on what to pack.
How bad are the goats in the Enchantment Lakes?
The goats in the Enchantments are famous. Or infamous? You’ll probably come home from your Enchantments through hike with
Will we need bear spray on our Enchantments thru hike?
Bears are rarely reported by hikers in the Enchantment Lakes. The most common mammal sightings are goats
Do we need a Garmin InReach or Spot when we thru-hike the Enchantments ?
You should expect to lose cell phone connection on your way out Icicle Road as you approach the Snow Lakes trailhead
What time should we start our Enchantments through hike?
The beginning and ending 4 miles of the trail are not particularly exciting or spectacular. Or difficult. Lots of parties intend to start hiking at 4:00 am by headlamp.
How long does it take to day hike through the Enchantments?
Everyone hikes at their own pace. To finish this 18 mile trail by daylight requires at least very brisk walking with minimal stops.
Do we need a permit to hike through the Enchantment Lakes Basin in one day?
Yes and no. You’ve probably heard of the hellacious process of trying to get an overnight camping permit in the Enchantments Core
What’s the weather forecast for my Enchantments through hike?
After making all the plans, booking the shuttle, getting fit, and getting your friends psyched, do you really want to cancel your hike due to rain? Maybe.
How should we train for our Enchantments through hike?
Training for an Enchantments thru hike is a great excuse to explore some of the region’s more challenging day hikes.