The Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness is a rugged and remote mountainous area in north-central Washington with pristine alpine lakes and jagged peaks.
Lake Chelan is a stunningly beautiful glacier-fed lake that stretches for over 50 miles through the wilderness. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the lake. The surrounding mountains provide a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration.
Stehekin Valley is a remote and pristine area located at the northern end of Lake Chelan. Visitors can access the valley by boat or floatplane, and once there, they can explore the charming town of Stehekin, hike through old-growth forests, and marvel at the majestic peaks of the North Cascades.
Glacier Peak is the most prominent peak in the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness, standing at over 10,000 feet. The peak is a popular destination for experienced hikers and climbers, offering challenging routes and breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
Spider Gap is a high mountain pass located in the wilderness that offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. The hike to Spider Gap is a challenging but rewarding experience, with opportunities to see alpine meadows, waterfalls, and wildlife along the way.
Colchuck Lake is a stunning alpine lake located in the Enchantment Lakes region of the wilderness. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters, towering granite peaks, and lush meadows filled with wildflowers. Hikers can reach Colchuck Lake via a steep and rugged trail, but the views are well worth the effort.
Description: A backpacker in the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness, on the Prince Creek trail
Image by Omarcheeseboro (talk) – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Collomia grandiflora Elevation 1475 meters (4840 feet) Libby Lake Trail 415 Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness IMG_20150620_192133
Image by brewbooks from near Seattle, USA – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Elevation 1475 meters (4840 feet) Libby Lake Trail 415 Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness IMG_20150620_074042
Image by brewbooks from near Seattle, USA – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Lake Chelan from the Lakeshore Trail, Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness
Image by Omarcheeseboro – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Calochortus lyallii (Lyall's mariposa lily) There were hundreds of these growing near the lower section of the trail. Elevation 1425 meters (4680 feet) Libby Lake Trail 415 Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness IMG_20150620_193159
Image by brewbooks from near Seattle, USA – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Elevation 2250 meters (7400 feet) Libby Lake Trail 415 Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness IMG_20150620_102655
Image by brewbooks from near Seattle, USA – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Looking northwest from south saddle of Hoodoo Peak Elevation 2410 meters (7900 feet) South Slope of Hoodoo Peak Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness IMG_20150620_133232
Image by brewbooks from near Seattle, USA – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Looking northeast down the War Creek valley from a bit below War Creek Pass. Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness, Okanogan National Forest, Washington, USA. Visible are Williams Butte and War Creek Ridge, as well as the War Creek Burn (1994) and Camel's Hump Burn (2008).
Image by BlueCanoe – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Kalmia microphylla Western Bog Laurel Elevation 2250 meters (7380 feet) near a large tarn near Libby Lake Trail 415 Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness IMG_20150620_165404
Image by brewbooks from near Seattle, USA – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia