Eightmile Lake
Location: Central Cascades - HWY 2
Length: 6.6 miles
Elevation: Gain/1300 ft.
Highest/4650 ft.
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Time: 4 hours
Finally! The hiking season
is upon us! I thought this winter would never end… To celebrate my boyfriend’s
birthday and Father’s Day, we took the family out hiking in Leavenworth where I
knew snowmelt wouldn’t be an issue. Eightmile Lake trail begins with some
elevation gain, but mellows out into an even climb the rest of the hike. There
are a couple water crossings and those with any sense of balance should have no
trouble. Pioneer Creek offers a stable log and if you’re crossing on a
scorcher, you might lose your balance just enjoying the breeze coming off the
roaring creek.
A unique hike, Eightmile is largely comprised of charred forest. A few years ago, fires ravaged the wilderness, leaving black, skeletal trees that are now skirted with new vegetation as the forest rehabilitates itself. Brilliant wildflowers accent the landscape as the trail meanders to the lakes. The first lake is little and not your destination. While it does offer fishing, continue less than a mile to reach the larger Eightmile Lake. The trail circles around the lakeshore with many open resting areas.
A unique hike, Eightmile is largely comprised of charred forest. A few years ago, fires ravaged the wilderness, leaving black, skeletal trees that are now skirted with new vegetation as the forest rehabilitates itself. Brilliant wildflowers accent the landscape as the trail meanders to the lakes. The first lake is little and not your destination. While it does offer fishing, continue less than a mile to reach the larger Eightmile Lake. The trail circles around the lakeshore with many open resting areas.
This year, camping is
allowed May 15 - October 31 but only with a permit. The permits are given
through lottery and your application must be submitted in early spring. The
only way to get a permit short notice is in person through the weekly lottery
at the Wenatchee River Ranger Station in Leavenworth. Visit here for more information on camping the
Enchantment Wilderness.
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| Little lake before Eightmile Lake PC: Kelly Anderson |
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| Baby trout! PC: Dale Anderson |
Directions: Enter
Leavenworth and take a right onto Icicle Rd just as you enter town. Continue
for 8 miles and FR 7601 will be on the left where Bridge Creek Campground is
signed. Do not mistake Eight-Mile Campground for the trailhead! The road is
steep and has large potholes so drive cautiously. It’s only a couple of miles
on the gravel road before Eightmile’s trailhead is signed on the right. A
parking lot and privy are available on the left just before a bridge that
crosses a sweet waterfall. If you continue up the road, it’ll end at the
trailhead for Colchuck Lake.
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| PC: Meg Anderson |
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| Lakeshore of Eightmile PC: Meg Anderson |
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