Lake Caroline
Central CascadesBest Jul–Oct
A long, demanding climb through burn recovery zones to an alpine lake tucked between Eightmile and Cashmere Mountains in the Enchantments.
About This Trail
Lake Caroline sits in a high basin at the edge of the Enchantments, ringed by the granite walls of Eightmile Mountain and Cashmere Mountain. The trail starts from the popular Eightmile Lake trailhead and enters Alpine Lakes Wilderness within the first 2 km. After passing Little Eightmile Lake, the route branches right and begins a sustained climb through steep switchbacks in burn recovery terrain.
The final stretch crosses alpine meadows before dropping steeply to the lake. The basin feels remote and sees far fewer visitors than the main Enchantments zones. Cashmere Mountain rises directly above the lake, and experienced scramblers use Caroline as a basecamp for the summit. Continuing 3.7 km past the lake reaches Windy Pass, where panoramic views of the Stuart Range open up.
This is a long day hike or an overnight trip. The burn zones leave much of the middle section exposed with little shade, making it hot on summer afternoons. Water is available at creek crossings along the way. The Eightmile Lake trailhead serves multiple popular destinations, so parking fills early on summer weekends.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Started at 7:30am in the Eightmile parking lot that still had several spots available.”
Last report: Sep 13, 2025
Scorecard
Permits / Passes
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Exposed burn recovery zones with no shade for several km
- Steep descent to the lake on loose trail
- Icicle Road access may be restricted due to storm damage; check current conditions before driving
- Backcountry permit required for overnight camping
Getting There
Northwest Forest Pass required at Eightmile Lake trailhead. Park only on the right side of FR 7601. Dispersed camping prohibited between FR 7601 and Icicle Creek. Dogs not allowed. Backcountry camping permit required May 15 through Oct 31, obtained via Recreation.gov lottery.
From Leavenworth (milepost 99 on US Highway 2), follow Icicle Creek Road 8.4 miles, then turn left on Eightmile Road for 3.1 miles to the trailhead. At the trail junction past Little Eightmile Lake (about 4.5 km in), take the right fork toward Lake Caroline. The left fork continues to Eightmile Lake.
Start early, ideally before 7 AM on summer weekends to secure parking and avoid afternoon heat in the burn zones. The 18+ km round trip and 945 m gain demand a full day. Allow 6 to 8 hours round trip at a moderate pace.
Recent Reports
Started at 7:30am in the Eightmile parking lot that still had several spots available. We were back around 1:30pm and the lot was slightly more full but nothing crazy.
trail in great shape, except overgrown from windy pass west down to jack trout th.
We decided to climb Cashmere Mountain as a 2-day trip, camping overnight at Lake Caroline. I snagged overnight permits early via the Enchantments lottery.
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