The Enchantments are around 7,000+ ft. up in the Alpine Lake Wilderness Area of the Cascades in Washington.  These two basins are full of crystal clear lakes and a stunning 360 degree view of rugged crags.  I was lucky enough to acquire one of few camping permits into this protected area and spend 4 days backpacking an 18-mile loop.

The Enchanted Lakes Area is easily one of the most beautiful places I have ever been.  The difficulty getting there makes the experience even more exciting.  First, you need to be lucky enough to win the permit lottery at the Leavenworth Ranger Station to gain camping access to the area.  The number of people allowed to camp in the core Enchantment zone is limited to protect the fragile ecosystem and the mountain goat population.  Second, you need to trek up 7,800 ft. Aasgard Pass which is no small feat with a fully loaded pack.

Dragontail Peak towers over a series of clear alpine lakes

Tranquil Lake

Just another day in paradise

Isolation Lake

The Loop

My top 10 Backpacking Trips:

1. Annapurna Base Camp, Nepal

2. Enchanted Lakes Basin, WA

3. Teton Crest Trail, WY

4. Wind River Range, WY

5. Druid Arch, Canyonlands, UT

6. Juan de Fuca Trail, Vancouver Island

7. Copeland Track, NZ

8. Routeburn Track, NZ

9. West Rim Trail, Zion National Park, UT

10. Abel Tasman, NZ