Frosty Pass
Central CascadesBest Jul–Sep
A demanding pass connecting alpine lakes and meadows on the rugged Ladies Loop, an Enchantments alternative.
About This Trail
The Frosty Pass trail climbs from the Icicle Creek drainage over a 5,700-foot pass connecting the Icicle Creek and Chatter Creek drainages. Most hikers use it as part of the "Ladies Loop," a challenging 25-mile circuit that links Frosty, Mary, and Ladies passes through some of the best alpine lake country in the Central Cascades outside the Enchantments. Lake Margaret sits at about mile 4 with multiple campsites, and the pass itself opens to meadows and views before descending the far side.
The Chatter Creek approach from the south is notoriously overgrown and steep, a consistent complaint across trip reports spanning years. Blowdowns and burned blowdowns add to the difficulty, particularly on the Hatchery Creek section where route-finding and limited water compound the challenge. The Icicle Creek approach from the north is better maintained but still a serious undertaking.
Hikers looking for Enchantments-caliber scenery without the permit lottery will find it here, but the trail demands more from you. Chain and Doelle Lakes, reachable as a side trip, are highlights. This is a multi-day trip for fit, experienced backpackers comfortable with rough trail conditions and significant daily elevation changes. The reward-to-effort ratio is high for those who can handle the work.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Somewhat overgrown on Chatter Creek as usual (with a steep climb).”
Last report: Aug 23, 2025
Scorecard
Less traffic than the Enchantments despite similar quality. The rough approach keeps crowds down. Lake Margaret campsites see moderate use in August.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Chatter Creek approach is severely overgrown with steep climbing
- Blowdowns and burned blowdowns on Hatchery Creek section
- Limited water on some segments
- Route-finding needed in brushy sections
Getting There
Icicle Creek trailhead access near Leavenworth. No fee. Self-issue wilderness permit at trailhead.
Plan for 2-3 days minimum for the full Ladies Loop. Start early for long days over the passes.
Recent Reports
Day 1 - Hatchery Creek to Augusta Lake. This trail is an absolute mess, the amount of blowdown, burnt blow down, exposure, lack of water, route finding...
I hiked in at Stevens Pass, past Josephine on Icicle Creek trail, up to Chain/Doelle Lakes where I camped, then over Frosty, Mary, Ladies passes and down Chatter Creek. I've been looking for alternatives to the Enchantments and this exceeded expectations.
A packed overnighter on the Ladies Loop -- 25 miles, +6500feet, counterclockwise. Somewhat overgrown on Chatter Creek as usual (with a steep climb).
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