Attractions: The North Buttress is an excellent route up Colchuck peak with phenomenal views. Wide enough to offer climbs of varying difficulties, one can choose a route depending on ability level and weather condtions.
Maps: See map below for more information. Print our topo map on 8.5”x11” paper in landscape mode. Note: Use ‘Print Preview’ to properly orient/scale the map before printing.
Activity: Climbing/Mountaineering
Nearest Town: Leavenworth
Skill: 2 (intermediate)
Fitness: 2- (easy intermediate) as an overnight trip, 3 (advanced) as a day trip
Access:–From Leavenworth take the Icicle River Road up to Bridge Creek Campground(about 8 miles), cross the bridge across Icicle Creek here, and follow the Eightmile Road up to its end at the Mountaineer Creek trailhead (same access point used for the Colchuck Lake and Lake Stuart hikes).
–Follow the trail to Colchuck Lake (see our description) and work around the lake counterclockwise on a much more indistinct trail to reach the mountain.
Trip Instructions: For a more detailed description of this route, see SummitPost’s trip report.
Fees/Permits: A Northwest Forest Pass is needed for the Colchuck Lake trailhead. An Enchantment Area Wilderness Permit is needed for overnight trips to this area between June 15 and October 15. The procedure for how permits are issued is occasionally tweaked. Call the Leavenworth Ranger Office (509-548-6977) to learn how to reserve a permit and/or how to pick one up on the day of your trip.
Leave It Better than You Found It. This should be every user’s goal. Pick up trash left by others, pull noxious weeds along your route, throw branches over unwanted spur trails, etc.
Disclaimer. Treat this information as recommendations, not gospel. Conditions change and those contributing these reports are volunteers–they may make mistakes or not know all the issues affecting a route. You are responsible for yourself, your actions, and your safety. If you won’t accept that responsibility, you are prohibited from using our information.
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