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Leavenworth is a beautiful village in Washington’s Cascade Mountains. The village itself is reason enough to visit, but those who love hiking won’t be disappointed by all of the fantastic trails it has to offer.
Here are 11 Leavenworth hikes you don’t want to miss:
- Tumwater Pipeline Trail
- Bygone Byways Trail
- Blackbird Island
- Icicle Gorge Nature Loop
- Icicle Ridge Trail
- Eightmile Lake
- Mt McCausland
- Fourth of July Creek Trail
- Colchuck Lake
- The Enchantments
- Minotaur Lake Trail
Keep reading to find out more about the eleven best hikes that Leavenworth has to offer. Every one of them is unmissable, and there’s something for every ability level on this list. Make sure to properly prepare yourself before your hike, and always let someone know where you’re going if you’re hiking alone.
And if you’re looking for a place to stay, check out our vacation rental guide for Leavenworth, WA!
Table of Contents
1. Tumwater Pipeline Trail
The Tumwater Pipeline Trail is a nice, short walk that’s perfect for exploring the area with family (even dogs are allowed, as long as they’re on a leash). It’s only 2.4 mi (3.86 km) in total and can be easily accessed outside of Leavenworth, to the west.
The trail will take you along the rapid-flowing river and then along a more sedate creek (perfect for cooling down in hot weather), ending at Castle Rock before you loop back to the start. Enjoy the scenery, especially the beautiful forest trees that shade the area.
2. Bygone Byways Trail
This trail is only a mile (1.61 km) in total, and it’s perfect for hikers of all ability levels, including those with a disability. The Bygone Byways Trail is a pleasant stroll through the tall trees along the Great Northern Railway’s original route.
The Bygone Byways trail isn’t only a great short walk through the beautiful Washington forest; it’s educational, too. Brochures from the trailhead provide more information about the area’s history and natural beauty.
3. Blackbird Island
Fancy checking out an island for the day? If that sounds appealing to you, go to the Waterfront Park in Leavenworth and enjoy this 2-mi (3.22-km) roundtrip hike that’s easy to do and perfect for all kinds of hikers.
In Blackbird Island, there are many little areas along the trail to explore and lots of native birds to try and spot in the leafy green trees surrounding the trail. So, if birdwatching is a hobby, you’ll find the island even more interesting.
Moreover, it’s a peaceful walk and perfect to check out any time of the year. Dogs are allowed on the trail too, but only if they’re on a leash.
4. Icicle Gorge Nature Loop
This trail will take you through the Icicle Creek Valley, a stunning forested area also featuring the Icicle Creek and the Icicle Gorge. A Northwest Forest Pass is required for entry, and don’t forget to pick up a brochure from the kiosk to learn more about the area’s natural wonders.
The Icicle Gorge Nature Loop is a great trail for all ages and all abilities. The hike is a 4.2-mi (6.76-km) roundtrip, so it’s a good one to take children on when they build up their hiking abilities. There’s so much to see along the trail that’ll certainly inspire any new hikers to want to go on even more trails in the future!
5. Icicle Ridge Trail
The Icicle Ridge Trail is one of the most stunning hikes that Leavenworth has to offer. It’s a very popular trail for many hikers throughout the year.
At 6 mi (9.66 km) roundtrip, the hike is the perfect day trip, and traveling along its well-maintained trail will reward you with meadows full of wildflowers, towering Ponderosa pines, and fantastic views of the town below.
6. Eightmile Lake
Eightmile Lake is a 6.6-mi (10.62-km) roundtrip hike through the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area. The hike through the towering trees and wildflowers is crisp and refreshing, with a climb early on but then a flatter journey to the lake.
You’ll also pass by Little Eightmile Lake and Eightmile Creek, both of which are worth checking out as well.
You’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass and a Wilderness permit to access this trail. You’ll also need a Backcountry camping permit if you intend to stay overnight.
7. Mt. McCausland
The Mt. McCausland hike will take you up the side of a mountain and reward you with spectacular scenery for the entire trip. The hike is a 7-mi (11.27-km) round trip and is a moderate journey up the mountain, with a steep section at the end.
All the way up, you’ll find berries and beautiful flowers. You’ll also pass through the forest, and at the end of the hike, you get to enjoy the fantastic views of Dow Lake and the surrounding mountains. Lake Valhalla is also easily accessed from the trail.
8. Fourth of July Creek Trail
The Fourth of July Creek Trail is certainly not one for those with a lack of hiking experience! This trail is a 12-mile (19.31-km) round trip that takes you 4500 ft (1371.6 m) upwards through meadows, forest, and rocky terrain.
There are stunning views all the way along the trail, but especially at the top. It’s a beautiful place to rest and just enjoy the solitude that surrounds you.
9. Colchuck Lake Trail
Colchuck Lake Trail is one of the most beautiful places in Washington, so of course, it’s on this list of hikes you simply can’t miss! It’s a difficult hike in places (mainly at the end), but that slog uphill is quickly forgotten as soon as you set eyes on those mesmerizingly beautiful turquoise waters.
The hike is 8 mi (12.87 km) there and back and will require you to get a Northwest Forest Pass before heading out. You’ll also need to get to the trailhead early, especially during peak season; otherwise, you might miss out on a spot. It’s certainly a popular trail, so it’s something to consider when making plans.
10. The Enchantments
The Enchantments are one of those places that have to be seen to be believed: smooth granite peaks with shimmering blue skies dispersed like jewels among them. Getting to them isn’t easy, though.
To get to the Enchantments, you have to hike to them. Most people then do a thru-hike between the Snow Lakes and Stuart Lakes Trailhead which is around 18 mi (28.97 km). It can be extra tiring, but this is the best way to experience everything the Enchantments have to offer in all their glory.
If you’re interested in camping, it’s available between May and October, but it requires a lottery permit from the Forest Service. Some permits are available on the day, but it’s best not to take your chances with this because you risk disappointment, so arrange yours beforehand.
11. Minotaur Lake Trail
The Minotaur Lake Trail is a 3.5-mi (5.63 km) roundtrip through the forest, through meadows, and towards a stunning lake. It’s a steep hike, so do be prepared.
During the first mile of the hike, you’ll gain over 1400 ft (426.72 m), so this one is best suited for more experienced hikers. Also, make sure you have a more recent map, as some older maps list the elevation incorrectly.
When you get to the lake, you get to finally enjoy the tranquility of the moment and the beautiful surroundings after a more challenging hike. Also, take a moment to rest because it’s a difficult journey on the way back down as well.
