Larch Hikes in Washington: 13 Amazing Hikes for Fall

Forget about March Madness, here in Washington, it’s all about Larch Madness! That glorious time of year when the weather is perfect, and the larch trees are glowing a fiery yellow. This is the time to get outside, hit the best Fall PNW hiking trails, and soak up that last bit of good weather!

There are few things more breathtaking than a stand of golden larches in full autumnal color. If you’re lucky enough to live in Washington State, you’re in for a real treat. There are numerous hikes throughout the state that will take you through forests of these beautiful trees. While some of the most popular hikes can be crowded, there are also plenty of lesser-known trails where you can enjoy the Larches in peace. So get out there and explore – you won’t be disappointed!

What are larches?

Larches are little-leafed trees that are found extensively in the Pacific Northwest. Larches in Washington are primarily found on the east side of the Cascade Mountains, where they grow at altitudes ranging from 3,000 to 7,000 feet. Larches are also found on Vancouver Island and in the interior of British Columbia.

Larches grow best on north-facing slopes with moist, well-drained soils. They are relatively slow-growing trees but can live to be hundreds of years old. Larches are an important part of the ecosystem in the Pacific Northwest, providing food and shelter for a variety of animal species. In the fall, larches turn a beautiful golden color before losing their needles for the winter.

When to see Larches in Washington

Larches are one of the few coniferous trees that lose their needles in the fall. As the days grow shorter and cooler, the Larches’ needles begin to change color, starting with a yellow hue before turning golden-brown.

Larches begin to change color around mid-September. If you want to see Larches at their peak color, the best time to visit is typically early-to-mid October.

However, the exact timing can vary depending on the weather conditions. For example, if there is a prolonged period of warm weather, the Larches may change color earlier than usual. Conversely, if there is a prolonged period of cold weather, the Larches may change color later than usual

You should also check sites like All Trails or Washington Trails Associaton, and read the recent trip reports. Recent hikers will let you know if the larches are “starting to turn”.

Keep in mind, once the Larches start to change, you only have a few short weeks to see them! Larches are a beautiful sight and well worth the effort to see them in person.

Larch Hikes in the North Cascades

The North Cascades area is one of the best places to see larches in Washington. Larches thrive in the high elevations and cool temperatures of the North Cascades, and the area is home to some of the largest and oldest Larches in the state. Visitors to the North Cascades can enjoy seeing these majestic trees in all their autumnal splendor.

These hikes are popular, and parking lots at trailheads can fill early. I highly recommend staying somewhere close to North Cascades National Park, like Winthrop or Twisp, to minimize your drive time in the morning. This way, you can get to the parking lots early and be sure to get a spot.

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Which pass do I need to do Larch Hikes in Washington?

The hikes listed here are all located in different parts of Washington. You’ll need to be sure you have the correct pass. The most common passes needed are the Northwest Forest Pass, and a Discover Pass.

If you plan on visiting any National Parks, you’ll need a National Park Pass. I always recommend buying America the Beautiful Pass. This pass is $80 for one full year and gives you access to all National Park Service sites AND you can use it in lieu of the NorthWest Forest Pass too!

Get your hiking passes here:
America The Beautiful
Northwest Forest
Discover Pass

Heather Pass -Maple Pass Loop Trail

• Distance: 7.4 miles
• Hike Type: loop
• Difficulty: hard
• Approximate Time: 4.5 hours
• Pass Needed: Northwest Forest Pass, or America The Beautiful Pass

One of the best places to see larches is on the Heather-Maple Pass Loop. This 7.2-mile hike takes you through a subalpine forest of Larix occidentalis (or western larches) as well as plenty of other stunning fall foliage.

The trail is challenging, but the effort is well worth it when you’re surrounded by a sea of yellow Larches. So, if you’re looking for a breathtaking fall hike, be sure to add the Heather-Maple Pass Loop to your list.

Blue Lake

• Distance: 4.6 miles
• Hike Type: out and back
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Approximate Time: 2.5 hours
• Pass Needed: Northwest Forest Pass, or America the Beautiful Pass

Larches are one of the most popular autumn sights in Washington. And for good reason – these deciduous conifers put on a stunning display of yellow before shedding their needles for winter. One of the best places to see larches in all their glory is Blue Lake in the North Cascades. The hike to Blue Lake is a moderate, under 5-mile round trip, and the views from the lake are simply breathtaking.

In addition to being surrounded by towering golden larches, hikers also have a chance to spot wildlife such as mountain goats and pika. So if you’re looking for a scenic hike that’s sure to please, be sure to add Blue Lake to your list.

Sherman Peak Loop

Distance: 5.5 miles
Hike Type: out and back
Difficulty: Moderate
Approximate Time: 3 hours
Pass Needed: Northwest Forest Pass, or America the Beautiful

The Sherman Peak Loop is a popular hiking trail in the North Cascades of Washington State.

The trail is typically snow-free from late June through October, making it a great option for summer and fall hikes. While the trail can be challenging at times, it’s well worth the effort for the incredible views of the Cascades.

Cutthroat Pass

Distance: 11.4 miles
Hike Type: out and back
Difficulty: Hard
Approximate Time: 6 hours
Pass Needed: Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful

Cutthroat Pass is a high mountain pass in the North Cascades of Washington state. The pass is located on the boundary between the Okanogan-Wenatchee and Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forests, and it provides access to the remote Lake Chelan region. Cutthroat Pass is one of the most popular destinations in the North Cascades, and it is especially popular with hikers and photographers.

The pass is named for the native Cutthroat Trout, which can be found in nearby lakes and streams. The area around Cutthroat Pass is known for its spectacular fall colors, and it is a popular destination for leaf peepers. In addition, the pass is home to a large population of Larches, which turn golden in autumn before shedding their needles.

Whether you’re looking for breathtaking views or a chance to see some of nature’s most magnificent colors, Cutthroat Pass is an ideal destination.

Larch hikes in the Central Cascades

The Central Cascades region of Washington is one of the best places in the world to see this natural phenomenon. Larches can be found throughout the Cascades, but the densest population is found in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. As autumn approaches, visitors from all over come to see the Larches turn yellow.

It’s an incredible sight that is not to be missed. So if you’re looking for a place to see some truly amazing fall colors, head on up to Washington’s Central Cascades region.

Lake Ingalls

Distance: 8.5 miles
Hike Type: out and back
Difficulty: Hard
Approximate Time: 5.5 hours
Pass Needed: Northwest Forest Pass, or America the Beautiful

Fall is the perfect time to hike to one of the most beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest – Lake Ingalls. The Larches in Washington start to turn gold and red, making for a stunning contrast against the bright blue skies. As you hike up the trail, you’ll be treated to views of jagged peaks and pristine alpine lakes. Reaching the lake is well worth the effort, as you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of Mount Stuart reflected in the clear waters. While the lake is certainly beautiful in summer, it’s even more magical in autumn when surrounded by a sea of golden Larches. So make sure to add Lake Ingalls to your list of must-do fall hikes!

Carne Mountain

Distance: 7.7 miles
Hike Type: out and back
Difficulty: Hard
Approximate Time: 6 hours
Pass Needed: None

Located just a few hours east of Seattle, this moderate hike takes you through alpine meadows and forested valleys to a ridge with sensational views of the surrounding peaks. While the Larches are undoubtedly the highlight of this hike, they are not the only attraction.

Carne Mountain is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including deer, elk, bears, and eagles. With its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, the Carne Mountain hike is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.

The Enchantments

Distance: 20.5 miles
Hike Type: point to point
Difficulty: hard
Approximate Time: 12 hours
Pass Needed: NW Forest Pass, or America The Beautiful (plus permits)

The Enchantments is a wilderness area in the central part of Washington State. The area is filled with Larches. The Enchantments is only accessible by foot, and it is a popular destination for hikers and backpackers.

Camping is allowed in the wilderness area, and there are several lakes where people can swim and fish. You’ll need a permit if you plan to stay overnight. The permits are few, and hard to come by. There is a lottery selection for permits. If you don’t score a permit, you can always attempt to hike part of the trail in one day.

If you decide to do the day hike, you’ll still need a permit, but you can get that day of your hike at the trailhead.

The area is also home to wildlife such as deer, elk, and bears. The Enchantments is a unique and scenic place, and it is well worth a visit if you are ever in Washington State.

Clara Lake 

Distance: 2.8 miles
Hike Type: out and back
Difficulty: Moderate
Approximate Time: 2 hours
Pass Needed: none

The Clara Lake Trail in Washington is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers alike. The trail winds through a dense forest of Douglas fir and Western hemlock, eventually opening up to a beautiful alpine lake.

Along the way, hikers may catch a glimpse of wildlife such as elk, deer, or even bears.

In the fall, the trail is especially stunning, as the Larches change color to a golden yellow. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a peaceful place to relax, the Clara Lake Trail is sure to please.

Colchuck Lake

Distance: 7.9 miles
Hike Type: out and back
Difficulty: Hard
Approximate Time: 5 hours
Pass Needed: Northwest Forest Pass, or America The Beautiful

One of the best places to see larches is on the Lake Colchuck Trail. This 7.9 round-trip hike takes you through old-growth forest and past alpine lakes. And at the end of the trail, you’re rewarded with stunning views of Mount Stuart and the Enchantments. If you’re looking for a breathtaking fall hike, the Lake Colchuck Trail is definitely worth a visit.

Swauk Forest Discovery Trail

Distance: 2.4 miles
Hike Type: loop
Difficulty: easy
Approximate Time: 45 minutes
Pass Needed: Northwest Forest, or America The Beautiful

The Swauk Forest Discovery Trail is a trail located in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in Washington state. The trail is known for its spectacular display of larches in the fall when the trees turn a golden yellow.

The trailhead is located just off Highway 97, and the trail itself is an easy loop. Along the way, hikers will find interpretive signs that provide information about the local plant and animal life.

The Swauk Forest Discovery Trail is a great way to experience the beauty of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, and it’s also a great place to see some of Washington’s amazing Larches!

Esmeralda Basin

Distance: 8.7
Hike Type: out and back
Difficulty: Moderate
Approximate Time: 6 hours
Pass Needed: Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful

The Larches in Washington are a must-see for any nature lover. And what better way to experience them than on a hike through the Esmeralda Basin? This picturesque area is home to a large population of Larches, and the hiking trails offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The Basin is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including deer, eagles, and cougars. So be sure to keep an eye out for these creatures as you explore this beautiful area.

Minotaur Lake

Distance: 3.5 miles
Hike Type: out and back
Difficulty: Moderate
Approximate Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Pass Needed: none

If you’re looking for a stunning hike that will leave you in awe, look no further than the Minotaur Lake hike in Washington state. This hike takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Pacific Northwest, including old-growth forests and alpine meadows. And, of course, the highlight of the hike is Minotaur Lake itself, a gorgeous mountain lake nestled beneath towering larches.

The Minotaur Lake hike is moderate in difficulty and can be done in a day, making it the perfect adventure for all levels of hikers. So what are you waiting for? Grab your hiking boots and hit the trail for an unforgettable experience.

What to Wear on Larch Hikes in Washington

Click here to shop the best gear for hiking in the fall

Larches are one of the most popular trees in Washington state and for good reason. They are unique in that they are deciduous conifers, meaning they lose their needles in the fall. This makes them a popular destination for hikers in the autumn months, as they provide a stunning contrast to the evergreens that surround them.

Hiking is a great way to get exercise and enjoy the beauty of nature, but it’s important to be prepared before setting out on a hike. Here are some essential items that every hiker should bring along when hiking in Washington in the fall:

-Hiking boots: Fall hikes can sometimes be wet and muddy, so it’s important to have a good pair of hiking boots that will keep your feet dry and comfortable.

-Rain jacket: Even if the forecast doesn’t call for rain, it’s always a good idea to bring a rain jacket just in case. In Washington, the weather can change quickly, and you don’t want to be caught unprepared.

-Map: A map is essential for any hike, but it’s especially important in unfamiliar territory. Make sure to study the map before setting out so you know where you’re going and how to get back. You can download trail maps from All Trails so you have them handy even when you lose service.

-First aid kit: A first aid kit is always a good idea whenever you’re venturing into the wilderness. Be sure to include basic items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. Don’t forget the 10 essentials of hiking, you should have them on every hike!

-Snacks and plenty of water: It’s important to stay hydrated and fueled up when hiking, so be sure to pack plenty of snacks and water. Energy bars, trail mix, and fruit are all good options. And don’t forget to pack a water bottle or Camelbak!

– Last, but not least, please remember to follow Leave No Trace principles. Stay on the trails, pack out your trash (and anyone else’s that you find.) Don’t approach or feed wildlife.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that you’ll have a safe and enjoyable hike in Washington this fall.