Eightmile Lake
Central CascadesBest Jun–Oct
The gentlest way into the Enchantments area, with views that punch well above the effort.
About This Trail
Eightmile Lake sits at 4,650 feet in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, ringed by old-growth forest with Dragontail Peak and Colchuck Glacier towering above. At just over 6 miles round trip with 1,300 feet of gain, this is one of the most accessible lakes in the greater Enchantments area. The trail is well-graded and moderate, making it a solid pick for hikers who want alpine scenery without the all-day sufferfest that most Enchantments approaches demand.
The route crosses Pioneer Creek on a log bridge within the first mile, then climbs through forest scarred by old fire. Burnt ponderosa pines frame views of the surrounding peaks. Little Eightmile Lake appears at 2.8 miles, a pleasant warmup for the main event. The final stretch gains a bit more elevation before reaching the larger lake and its rocky, tree-lined shore. Thimbleberries line the trail in late summer, and wildflowers fill the meadows earlier in the season.
Overnight trips between May and October require an Enchantments permit through Recreation.gov. Day hikers just need a Northwest Forest Pass. The access road (FR 7601) is rough washboard, and parking is restricted to the right side of the road between the Eightmile and Stuart/Colchuck trailheads. No dispersed camping is allowed between FR 7601 and Icicle Creek.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- rough access road (washboard)
- parking restrictions along FR 7601
Getting There
Eightmile trailhead at the end of FR 7601, 3.1 miles off Icicle Creek Road. Washboard road but passable for most vehicles. Park only on the right side of the road. Privy at the lot.
From the trailhead, cross Pioneer Creek on a log bridge and climb gradually through burned forest. Little Eightmile Lake at 2.8 miles makes a good rest stop. The final stretch to the main lake gains the last bit of elevation before the trail opens to the lakeshore.
No need for a predawn start. The moderate distance means you can arrive mid-morning and still have a relaxed day. Summer weekends fill the lot by 9 or 10 AM, so earlier is better for parking.
Similar Hikes
