Dragontail Peak
Central CascadesBest Jul–Sep
A bruising 1,778-meter scramble to the highest point in the Enchantments, with summit views spanning from Rainier to Glacier Peak.
About This Trail
Dragontail Peak stands at 2,694 meters, the highest summit in the Enchantments area and one of the most prominent non-volcanic peaks in the Central Cascades. The standard route climbs from the Stuart Lake trailhead to Colchuck Lake, ascends Aasgard Pass, then scrambles the south ridge to the summit. Total elevation gain runs close to 1,778 meters over 21.7 km round trip.
The approach to Colchuck Lake follows good trail through forest for the first 6.4 km. Above the lake, Aasgard Pass gains 580 meters on steep, loose talus with no maintained tread. From the top of Aasgard, the route traverses west across upper basin slabs and boulders to reach the south ridge of Dragontail. The final push involves Class 3 scrambling on solid granite with considerable exposure.
This is a full-commitment day. Trip reports consistently describe it as one of the most demanding single-day objectives in the region. Late-season snow and ice patches linger on the upper route well into August, requiring careful foot placement or crampons. The summit panorama takes in Mount Stuart, Prusik Peak, the full Enchantment basin chain, Mount Rainier, and Glacier Peak.
Climbing gear and route-finding experience are required. The descent back over Aasgard Pass demands patience on tired legs. Most parties spend 12-16 hours car to car.
Mountain Weather
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“The forest road is in good shape other than a few potholes at the beginning and minor washboarding, however Icicle creek road is in rough shape.”
Last report: May 30, 2026
Scorecard
Permits / Passes
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Class 3 scrambling with significant exposure
- Loose talus on Aasgard Pass
- Late-season snow and ice on upper route
- Route-finding above Aasgard in poor visibility
- Exhaustion on long descent
Getting There
Stuart Lake trailhead holds 20-30 vehicles. Parking only on the right side of FR 7601. Fills very early on summer weekends. FR 7601 typically closes November through May.
From US 2 at the west edge of Leavenworth, turn south onto Icicle Creek Road. Drive 8.4 miles, turn left on FR 7601, continue 3.7 miles on dirt to the Stuart Lake trailhead. Follow the Colchuck Lake trail to the lake, then ascend Aasgard Pass and traverse west to the south ridge.
Pre-dawn start is essential. Most successful parties leave the trailhead between 3-5 AM to allow adequate daylight for the scramble and return. Expect 12-16 hours car to car.
Recent Reports
Took a day trip up Dragontail on Saturday via Colchuck lake and Aasgard pass. The forest road is in good shape other than a few potholes at the beginning and minor washboarding, however Icicle creek road is in rough shape.
Three of us left the Stuart Lake trailhead at 3:30 AM and put in a 13. 5-hour day to tag both Colchuck Peak and Dragontail — ascending via the Colchuck Glacier, traversing the ridge saddle between the two summits, glissading off Dragontail, and returning via Asgard Pass.
Did Dragontail yesterday via the snow/ice patch. It is quite the haul getting up there for a car 2 car.
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