18Miles
2–4Days
6,800 ftGain
ThruType
Permits
System
Recreation.gov advanced lottery + daily geofence lotteryDaily geofence lottery active May 1–Oct 31: open Recreation.gov app at the trailhead and apply for same-day or next-day permit. Weekday odds significantly better than weekends. Snow Zone permits are easier to get than Core Zone.Apply or read more
Cost
$6 reservation fee + $8/person
Bear storage
Required in Core Zone
Season
Best
Late July – mid September. Snow can persist through July.
JFMAMJJASOND
PeakShoulderClosed
On trail
Water
Abundant alpine lakes throughout. Filter all.
Resupply
Day-use to 4-day trip — carry all food from Leavenworth.
Notes
18 miles of the most spectacular alpine scenery in the lower 48. The Core Zone passes through 10+ alpine lakes above 7,000 ft. A permit here is worth fighting for.
Elevation
1,600 ftHigh 7,200 ft
Resupply towns
Leavenworth (pre/post trip only)
Recommended gear