Also known as: Enchantment Lakes, Core Enchantments
The Enchantments is a high alpine traverse through one of the most stunning landscapes in the Cascades — a chain of glacier-carved lakes surrounded by granite peaks, mountain goats, and larch forests that turn gold each October. The through-hike from Snow Lakes to Colchuck Lake crosses Asgard Pass at 7,800 feet.
The Enchantments Core Zone requires a permit obtained through a competitive lottery system managed by the USFS. The zone draws applicants from across the country, with acceptance rates under 5% for peak season dates. The larch season in late September is the most sought-after window.