19 Best Larch Hikes in Washington State for Fall Time [2023]
Are you searching for the best larch hikes in Washington state? Well, you’re in luck because there are dozens of them!
Hiking in Washington means stunning views, abundant wildlife, and a variety of accessible trails. For a few short yet delightful weeks in the fall, it also means larches.
The most popular way of seeing these amazing trees is to go on one of many possible larch hikes.
Larches can be found in several areas throughout the state of Washington. They’re particularly abundant in the North Cascades but are also plentiful in the Okanogan-Wenatchee Forest and at higher elevations in Mount Rainier National Park.
I’ve asked fellow blogger, Tammi, from Wander Healthy to help give us some of the best places to see larches. Both she and I have embarked on many of these hikes and know that you won’t be disappointed by them!
What follows are 19 of the best places to see these unique trees. Be sure to check current trail conditions, weather reports, and parking requirements when planning your visit!
Best Larch Hikes in Washington
1. Maple Pass Loop
Location: North Cascades, Highway 20
Distance: 7.2 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 2,020 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
This is one of the most beautiful and popular trails during the larch madness that consumes hikers in the fall.
It has stunning mountain views, spectacular fall foliage, and incredible golden larch colors. You’re also likely to see marmots and ptarmigans along the way.
Lining the trails, you’ll see small bushes of bright red leaves and burnt orange foliage.
Going counterclockwise on this trail offers a more gradual ascent and provides the most stunning views of mountain peaks, especially Black Peak, as you reach the pass.
While this trail is extremely popular, it’s for good reason. It’s one of my favorite trails to embark on year-round and showcases some of the best larches in the North Cascades.
Weekdays are considerably less crowded than weekends and parking is easier.
If you arrive early enough, parking will be pleasant and you can watch the sun rise above Lake Ann, as you get closer to the top.
2. Cutthroat Pass via PCT
Location: North Cascades, Highway 20
Distance: 10 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
Cutthroat Pass via the PCT is a slightly less crowded hike than Maple Pass Loop, though more difficult as well.
It’s a popular trail for hiking, backpacking, and even mountain biking. You should start to see larches about halfway up and scores of them towards the top.
It’s possible to see a variety of wildlife on this hike, though I rarely have. Black bears, mountain goats, marmots, and their smaller and speedier cousins have all been seen during late summers here.
Afternoon lighting is best for this hike, as it brings out the beauty of the larch color.
Since part of the trail follows the Pacific Crest Trail, you may even run into some thru-hikers completing their journey.
3. Cutthroat Lake
Location: North Cascades, Highway 20
Distance: 3.8 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 400 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
Most larch hikes in Washington are more difficult, but this one is great, even if you have children!
It’s beautiful, short, has minimal elevation gain, there’s a beautiful lake, and surrounding views of impressive peaks.
Cutthroat Lake is named for the Cutthroat trout found within. You can watch these actively, sometimes aggressively, feeding on bugs that settle onto the water.
Keep in mind, however, that it’s difficult to get close to the lake and the muddy trail around to the side only goes part way.
If you’re going with children, make sure to let them touch the larch needles, which are much softer than they appear to be.
4. Blue Lake
Location: North Cascades, Highway 20
Distance: 4.4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,050 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
While the North Cascades are filled with gorgeous alpine lakes, Blue Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the North Cascades, which is really saying something.
This hike is closer to the side of easier than moderate, so it’s more accessible than most other larch hikes on this list.
The trailhead itself is also pretty accessible, as it’s just off of Highway 20, right outside of North Cascades National Park.
The lake gets its name for a very obvious reason; the bright blue color of the water.
In the fall, Blue Lake is surrounded by gorgeous golden larches, which reflect into the water, and create a gorgeous glow.
There are a variety of boulders to sit on and soak up the larch views, as well as the wildlife while having a picnic lunch.
Alternatively, you can bring your paddle board up for even more of a workout and enjoy the larches from a different perspective.
Just after noon is the best time to see the larches glow in the sun here.
Blue Lake is one of the few hikes on this list that is still accessible during the early winter, before the hikes are hard to reach in the winter.
5. Easy Pass
Location: North Cascades, Highway 20
Distance: 7.7 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 2,900 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
Easy Pass is not an easy hike, despite the name. It’s actually quite the opposite.
But it is filled with both beautiful North Cascades larches and gorgeous huckleberry foliage in the fall and is an easy way to escape the crowds during the “larch march.”
As you meander along the trail, through the towering mountain peaks, you’ll be surrounded by not only larches, but also red and orange bushes.
This hike encompasses everything that you would want to see during a Washington fall hike, and gives you the opportunity to experience it on your own.
Since fewer people embark on this trail, you’ll be able to experience peace and serenity, away from the rest of the world.
6. Grasshopper Pass
Location: North Cascades, Highway 20
Distance: 9.4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
Flaming larches, shadowy peaks, and snow-capped mountains are what makes the hike to Grasshopper Peak so special.
Since it’s so remote, this is the perfect hike to get away from some of the crowds that are gathering at other trailheads.
The entire hike follows the Pacific Crest Trail, so if you’re hoping to thru-hike it someday, you’ll get a taste for what it’s like.
Pass by towering peaks like Cone Mountain, Tatie Peak, and Syncline Mountain on your way to Grasshopper Peak.
You won’t actually get onto the peak, but you’ll have fantastic views of it, all the while being surrounded by those gorgeous larches that you’re seeking out.
Along with the golden colors, you’ll be surrounded by red, glowing leaves and bushes that line the entirety of the trail.
Keep an eye out for marmots, mountain goats, and other creatures that call the Cascades home.
7. Ruby Mountain
Location: North Cascades, Highway 20
Distance: 18.6 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 6,500 feet
Parking Permit: None
If you’re on the hunt for a longer, multi-day hiking trip to see the beautiful larches, then hiking Ruby Mountain is for you.
Ruby Mountain is Washington’s 21st most prominent peak, but fortunately, you don’t hike the entire mountain. Close though.
You’ll start near Diablo Lake and meander along Thunder Creek for much of the hike, giving a show of some of the larches in the North Cascades.
Once you get up to the ridge, you’re in for 360-degree views to make all your efforts worthwhile.
Larches are found mostly on the north side of this mountain. Cougars and bears are also commonly sighted on this mountain, so come prepared and preferably, not alone.
8. Lake Ingalls
Location: Salmon La Sac/Teanaway
Distance: 8.4 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 3,000 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
While this gorgeous alpine lake is a treat in itself, there are very few larches within the immediate vicinity of the lake.
Those that are present are on the far side of the lake and require bouldering your way around the lake to the left.
The hike to get to Lake Ingalls, however, is through a forest of unbelievably burnt oranges and glowing larches in the late fall.
Just above and sweeping down into Headlight Basin is a field of these beauties.
You can choose to either follow the ridge to the lake, or head right down into Headlight Basin and be totally immersed in the beauty of Washington’s larches.
You will also likely see mountain goats, marmots, and eagles in numbers, above the basin and by the lake as well.
Along with the larches and glowing fall colors, you’ll also get to enjoy fascinating views of Mount Stuart, and Mount Rainier can be spotted in the distance on a clear day.
Lake Ingalls is also marvelous during the spring months when the snow is melting and the lake is a bright blue color.
9. Lake Ann via Esmeralda Basin
Location: Salmon La Sac/Teanaway
Distance: 8.7 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 2,500 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
The Esmeralda Basin hike splits off from the Lake Ingalls hike, a significantly more popular place for larches.
They share the same trailhead, so parking for this one can be quite a problem on weekends.
Once you split off onto your own trail, it’s a very peaceful hike with lovely larches and views along the way.
You’ll find mountain goats, grouse, and marmots here as well, so keep an eye peeled for these wild creatures.
Lake Ann is the end destination here, where you’ll have views from the backside of Ingalls Peak, with Lake Ingalls just on the other side of the ridge.
During the fall months, enjoy the sweeping views of the larches through the basin, and as winter approaches, watch as a dusting of white covers the golden trees.
10. Iron Bear Trail
Location: Central Cascades, Blewett Pass
Distance: 6.1 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet
Parking Permit: None
If you follow the directions to this trailhead, it will take you over a small water crossing. It’s just after the water crossing that you’ll park.
The Iron Bear trail has a lot of shade on the way up, so be sure to bring layers, as it might be chilly during the fall months.
You might see hawks, eagles, and of course, plenty of Western Larches, particularly towards the top.
But you’ll also have wonderful views of Stuart, Colchuck, and Dragontail Peak, as well as an impressive view of Rainier, possibly all to yourself.
If you’re on the hunt for a lesser-visited larch hike, this is the place to be.
11. Clara and Marion Lakes
Location: Central Washington, Wenatchee
Distance: 3.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 900 feet
Parking Permit: Discover Pass
Clara and Marion Lakes trail is one of the few hikes where you can see the larches from the road leading to this lovely trailhead, as well as at the parking lot.
And if that isn’t enough, there are even more at the lakes themselves.
Both of these lakes are full of trout, with the second and slightly smaller lake, Marion Lake, often dried up by the time larch season hits.
While the views at Clara and Marion Lakes aren’t as dramatic as on some of the other trails, it’s a nice short trail to embark on.
You’ll get to enjoy the glowing larches surrounding the water, and won’t have to fight with other hikers on the trail, as it’s much less crowded.
One of the most beautiful parts of Clara and Marion Lakes is seeing the larches reflect into the water, making it seem as if the lake, too, is shining bright gold.
12. Tronsen Ridge
Location: Central Cascades, Stevens Pass
Distance: 11.1 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 2,600 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
The road to this trailhead is rough, and slow-going, making it one of the quieter and more peaceful larch hikes.
So quiet it may very well just be you and the wildlife on this trail, which can include bears, cougars, and a wide variety of birds.
Although it’s long, you’ll get to stroll through the rolling hills of central Washington, and on a clear day, enjoy views of Mount Rainier in the distance.
When fall hits, admire the beautiful fall colors that fill the fields and valleys surrounding you.
Wander through rolling hills, golden fields, and boulder patches as you embark on this trail along Tronsen Ridge.
13. Carne Mountain
Location: Central Cascades, Stevens Pass
Distance: 7.7 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 3,600 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
This beast of hike, and drive to reach the trailhead, is what makes the larches even shinier and more beautiful than they already are.
The road is littered with potholes and the parking lot isn’t much better, but once you’ve arrived, none of that will matter.
The Carne Mountain trail itself is a complete delight. The larch brilliance begins just under 3 miles into the hike in the shallow basin below the peak.
At the peak, you’ll find epic views of Glacier Peak and its surrounding mountains.
Although you’ll certainly be out of breath after climbing to Carne Mountain, the forests of gorgeous larches make the climb seem easier.
Be prepared for hiking through the snow when looking for larches on this hike, because of its high elevation, snow arrives early.
14. Navaho Peak
Location: Salmon La Sac/Teanaway
Distance: 12.8 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 4,100 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
A gorgeous, albeit long, hike through paradise is what you can expect when embarking towards Navaho Peak.
Views of the Stuart Range and Earl Peak are present to distract you from the distance and you may see black bears, marmots, deer, grouse, and eagles along the way as well.
The larches, more spread out than on other hikes, are towards the top, making all of your hard work worthwhile.
As winter arrives, a dusting of snow covers the yellow larches, and the contrast between white and golden makes this one of the most beautiful places to be.
Once you arrive at the peak, you’ll have fascinating 360-degree views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
See if you can name each of the peaks that you can see from here, including some of the most popular in the state of Washington.
15. Colchuck Lake
Location: Central Cascades, Leavenworth
Distance: 8.5 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 2,300 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
This hike is one of the most popular ones in all of Washington state, particularly during larch season.
As you wander along the trail, which has a gradual incline for the entire time, you’ll have fading views of the surrounding mountains.
Cross boulder fields, bridges, and small streams to arrive at the beautiful and remarkable Colchuck Lake.
The lake, the larches, the lure of the Enchantments, all breathtaking and brilliant beyond measure.
Just over Aasgard Pass, which can be seen leading up over Dragontail Peak, lies The Enchantments; a dream trip for all backpackers.
Marmots and goats are abundant along the trail as well, which have the right of way at all times.
Go during the week if you can, the earlier the better, to avoid crowds and for easier parking, since this is one of the most popular lake hikes in the state.
16. The Enchantments
Location: Central Cascades, Leavenworth
Distance: 19 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 4,800 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
One of the most sought-after hikes in all of the Pacific Northwest is the incredible Enchantments thru-hike.
While beautiful during all parts of the year, the Enchantments truly shine during the fall, when golden larches cover the Core Zone.
You’ll start by passing Colchuck Lake, so be sure to take in the views and admire the larches here before climbing over Aasgard Pass.
Once you’ve reached the Core, you’ll be blown away by the towering mountainous landscapes, the beautiful lakes, the wildlife, and the firey fall colors.
Permits to backpack here are some of the most coveted permits in the state because a thru-hike is a full commitment in time, energy, and sweat.
No matter which way you embark on this trail, the breathtaking alpine lakes are sure to stop you in your tracks. If they don’t, the goats and marmots might instead.
It’s extremely important to watch the weather closely leading up to the Enchantments hike.
It can change quickly and snow in July is not uncommon. As always, hike prepared for whatever conditions you might encounter.
17. Sherman Peak Loop
Location: Eastern Washington, Okanogan Highlands
Distance: 5.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
Not many larch hikes in Washington are found in the eastern half of the state, but this beautiful trail is one of the few!
Because of its far location from major cities like Seattle, this trail is far less trafficked than other hikes in the western half of the state.
The Sherman Peak Loop hike routes around the peak, never actually reaching the top.
One of the less popular larch hikes, you’ll find sweeping valleys filled with golden hues if you go at the right time.
Rattlesnakes, bears, cougars, and moose are just a few of the animals you can see along the hike here.
Stay alert and know how to handle encounters with each of them, as you can easily be the only one on the trail for this hike.
18. Lyman Lake
Location: Central Cascades, Lake Chelan
Distance: 15.5 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 3,100 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
This hike rivals the beauty and grandeur of the Enchantments, without the crowds.
While the views surely aren’t as dramatic, you’ll still get to enjoy the surrounding mountains, beautiful golden larches, and two gorgeous alpine lakes, tucked beneath the peaks.
There are also a few waterfalls that are visible along the trail, so be sure to keep an eye out for them.
It feels more like a trek with all that you have to coordinate to get there, but hiking and trekking are not quite the same.
You must take a boat across Lake Chelan to Holden Village in order to reach this more remote trail.
Make sure to have a return trip plan as well, given the boats. I would suggest backpacking it, to fully enjoy the route.
Otherwise, it’s a fairly substantial hike for one day, so it’s best to plan to take a few days to complete this hike.
Mountain goats, bears, and marmot sightings are all possibilities along this hike.
19. Goat Peak
Location: Mount Rainier, Chinook Pass
Distance: 5.3 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 3,100 feet
Parking Permit: Northwest Forest
While shorter in distance, this hike covers a lot of elevation gain, giving it its difficult rating.
Goat Peak is aptly named, and not because you’ll see a ton of goats up here.
This one is a challenge, but very much worth it. Views, a variety of wildlife, and of course, larches in the fall.
You’ll wander through the forest for part of the trail, before the trees open up and you make it to Goat Peak.
In the distance, look for Mount Rainier, as well as the large Bumping Lake. The fascinating views here will make you want to stay for hours.
And during the fall months, expect to see dozens of golden larches lining the trails, glowing and creating a magical experience.
It’s one of the more accessible larch hikes in terms of location, just east of Chinook Pass, and not as crowded because of the extremely steep elevation gain.
If you’re looking for a view of larches with Mt Rainier in the background, look no further.
What are Larches?
Larches are deciduous conifers of the family Pinaceae and are native to the colder regions of the northern hemisphere.
They are unique among conifers because they lose their needles in the fall, much like deciduous trees.
Larches are known for their slender spire-like form and soft, light green needles that turn yellow and gold in the autumn before they fall off.
Larches look very similar to pine trees, but they are not evergreen, as they lose their needles in late October, just before winter arrives.
Washington has two kinds of larches; the western larch and the subalpine larch.
What is the Best Time to See Larches in Washington?
Since larches only are golden in the fall, there’s a very limited time period to see them. You have to be quick and on your game!
The best time to see larches in Washington state is in October. Sometimes the season starts a little early, sometimes a little late, but it’s usually only about three weeks long.
Look at trail reports and social media to determine when and where the larches are turning, and plan your hikes around these reports.
Where Can I See Larches in Washington?
Most larches in Washington grow on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountain range since they thrive in sunny conditions.
Larches can also grow on the western side of the Cascades, but it’s less common, as this region is very wet. They also thrive in areas prone to wildfires.
The unique conifer trees are typically found in regions at above at least 2,000 feet, in the mountainous areas of the Pacific Northwest.
You can see larches all over the state, including around Snoqualmie, Leavenworth, Highway 20, and Highway 2.
North Cascades larches are the most beautiful and sought-after, and this area is where you’ll find most of the beautiful trees.
Are There Larches in the North Cascades?
Yes, there are larches all over the North Cascades, and is the most popular spot to find these unique trees.
Some of the most popular hikes where you can see larches are found near North Cascades National Park, or along Highway 20.
This location is prime growing conditions for larches, as they thrive in sunny areas, on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountain range.
A few of the best larch hikes in Washington are Blue Lake, Maple Pass Loop, and Cutthroat Lake, all near NCNP.
Are There Larches in Seattle?
There aren’t many places to see larches outside of the mountain ranges in Washington, but you can actually see them a few places near Seattle.
At the Washington Park Arboretum and Ravenna Park, you can find a few larches without having to drive too far or do much hiking.
Although I personally think that they’re better seen when you have to work for them. 😉
Weather in Washington in Fall
Washington is starting to cool down during the fall months, just before winter falls, and sticks around until May.
Up in these alpine climates, you can expect cooler weather, with temperatures around the mid-20s to low 30s.
Snow is possible during larch season, which typically takes place for a few weeks in October. This isn’t all bad though, because the larches are beautiful with a dusting of snow.
If you do see on trail reports that there’s snow on the trail, be sure to always use caution when winter hiking, and be prepared.
What to Wear for Hiking in Washington in Fall
Since the temperatures are starting to cool down and snow is likely, it’s best to dress warm and be prepared for those cooler temps.
Here are some items that you should wear and have with you for your larch hikes.
- Base Layers: Always have a base layer on to keep you warm and wick away sweat. My favorites are from Smartwool.
- Mid Layers: A mid layer acts as your insulator to keep you warm. It’s best to choose one made from merino wool or fleece, like this Patagonia fleece.
- Outer Layer: A jacket keeps you warm and protects you from the elements. Choose from either down or synthetic material, such as the Patagonia Nano puff jacket.
- Rain Jacket: You never know when it will rain in Washington, so always bring a rainjacket, such as the Black Diamond rain shell.
- Hiking Socks: Of course, choose a good quality pair of hiking socks to wear under your boots. My favorites are from Darn Tough.
- Hiking Boots: Wear a pair of sturdy hiking boots to protect your feet. I personally love the Oboz brand, but Merrell and Columbia also make great options.
- Day Pack: Choose a day pack that can carry all of your belongings, preferably between 20-30 liters. I love my Osprey Tempest 20 pack.
- Crampons or Microspikes: Always have microspikes or crampons when hiking in the fall, since snow is likely.
- Trekking Poles: You should also carry trekking poles when you’re hiking long distances, and possibly in snow. Here are my favorite budget-friendly options.
FAQs
Is Hiking a Good Workout?
Yes. Hiking is an excellent workout and one of the healthiest hobbies you can have.
Do Larches Grow in Washington State?
Yes, larches grow in Washington state, along the eastern side of the Cascade Mountain range.
Where Do Larches Grow?
Larches grow in mountainous areas in the Pacific Northwest, including in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and British Columbia.
Are Larches Evergreen?
No, larches are not evergreen, as they lose their needles in late October just before winter.
Are All Larches Deciduous?
Yes, larches are deciduous, which means that they shed their leaves or needles in the winter. Larches are not evergreen and lose their needles after turning golden in the fall.
Wrap-Up: Larch Hikes in Washington
Larch madness, the Larch March or larch season, whatever you wish to call it, is a must-do for adventurers in Washington state.
It only lasts a few weeks in the fall, and those few weeks are filled with wonder and delight for hikers near and far.
Larch season also coincides with hunting season and often in the same areas. Wear bright colors when you go hiking, and remember to bring your ten essentials with you.
Be sure to add these epic larch hikes in Washington to your schedule, so you can check them out this fall!
Happy hiking!
