Hikes/United States/Washington State/Wenatchee National Forest

Difficulty

Hard

Elevation

827 m

Distance

15.9 km

Duration

5-7h

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Larch Lake from High Camp Hike

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If the name wasn’t a dead giveaway, Larch Lake is a gorgeous fall destination, surrounded by gold. It’s a great hike in the summertime too, but this 15.9 km journey is best done when the needles change color. This route guide begins at Alpine Lakes High Camp, where you can book a cabin to stay at to provide easier access to the lakes. Expect moderate traffic on this hard hike.

Route Description for Larch Lake from High Camp Hike

Larch Lake is a wonderful spot, especially when the mountains receive their first dusting of snow and the larches turn golden. This route guide begins from High Camp, where hikers often book cabins to make access to the lake easier. While you could hike in from the High Pass trailhead, that is a longer route.

From camp, take Mac Express to Sunset Trail. You’ll gain McCue Ridge, where atop the ridge, the trail ends and you’ll need to briefly follow tape in the trees to another trail. Keep heading west along the ridge to a left turn onto trail #1574. This takes you down to Chiwaukum Lake. Hike along the creek into an open area that is bright red in the fall, where you’ll take the last climb to Larch Lake basin. After soaking up the views, you’ll retrace your steps back to High Camp.

Getting to the Larch Lake from High Camp Hike Trailhead

The trailhead for the Larch Lake hike from High Camp is at High Camp. This is a hike-in only destination.

Route Information

Backcountry Campground:
High Camp
When to do:
April-September
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back