Overview

The Golden Lakes Loop (also called Sawtooth Lakes Loop) is a 18-23 mile backpacking circuit through the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness that offers a quieter alternative to Washington's permit-restricted alpine destinations. The loop connects three stunning alpine lakes—Eagle, Boiling, and Cooney—while traversing some of the densest golden larch forests in the state. With 5,180 feet of elevation gain, well-maintained trails, and no permit lottery, this moderately strenuous route is ideal for backpackers seeking solitude in high country.

The loop typically takes 2-3 days at a comfortable pace, though strong hikers can complete it in one long push. Counterclockwise from Crater Creek Trailhead is the preferred direction, starting with a manageable 6-7 mile approach to Eagle Lakes, then tackling the challenging Angel Staircase pass when you're more acclimated. Late September through early October offers peak larch season with golden hillsides rivaling the Enchantments.

Permits & Regulations

No wilderness permits or advance reservations are required for the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness—a major advantage over nearby areas. However, you will need a Northwest Forest Pass ($30 annual or $5 daily) for trailhead parking at Crater Creek. Purchase online through Recreation.gov or use the Scan and Pay function at the trailhead.

Food Storage: As of September 2024, a forest-wide food storage order is in effect through June 2029. All food, food containers, pet food, and scented items must be stored in bear-resistant containers or kept within 100 feet and direct sight when actively attended. Bear canisters are strongly recommended.

Group Size: Limited to 12 people and 18 stock animals maximum.

Fire Restrictions: Campfires are typically prohibited above 5,000 feet from June through October. Stage 1 or Stage 2 fire restrictions are common during summer months. Pressurized gas stoves only—check current restrictions at fs.usda.gov/okawen before your trip.

Camping: Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the wilderness. Camp at least 200 feet from lakes and streams to protect water quality and fragile alpine vegetation. Use established sites when available to minimize impact. Equipment cannot be cached or left unattended for more than 48 hours.

Stock Use: Horses and pack animals are common on this loop. Weed-free feed is required for all stock.

Best Season

Late September - Early October (Peak): Larch season transforms entire hillsides into glowing gold. The first week of October historically offers peak color, lasting 10-14 days. Expect freezing nights, possible snow dustings above 7,000 feet, and dramatically fewer crowds than summer. Eagle and Cooney Lakes surrounded by golden larches are unforgettable.

July - August (Summer): Reliable weather and fully melted trails, but peak mosquitoes in July make this challenging. Wildflowers bloom through late July in meadows. Popular with families and stock users. Afternoon thunderstorms possible.

Early July (Shoulder): Snow may linger on north-facing slopes, particularly the Angel Staircase descent to Cooney Lake, making it treacherous. Water sources are abundant from snowmelt. Check recent trip reports for snow levels.

Late August - Mid-September (Ideal): Mosquitoes fade, weather remains stable, and trails are dry. Less crowded than peak larch season but without the golden spectacle.

October onwards: Early season snowstorms can arrive after mid-October. Gaiters and trekking poles recommended. Some years see significant snow by the second week of October.

Wildfire Smoke: August through September can bring variable air quality depending on regional fire activity. Monitor AirNow.gov before your trip.

Water & Resupply

Water Sources: All three major lakes (Eagle, Boiling, Cooney) provide reliable water year-round. Martin Creek Trail has plentiful water even late season. Eagle Lake Trail has fewer sources—fill up at the lake. Summit Trail has several stream crossings. No unbridged creek crossings on the entire loop, though a small dam aids the crossing at Eagle Lakes outlet. Filter all water.

Seasonal Reliability: Water is abundant through October. By late season, rely on the lakes rather than intermittent streams.

Resupply: This loop is too short to require resupply, but the nearby towns provide excellent pre-trip provisioning:

Twisp (17 miles from trailhead): Hank's Harvest Foods for full groceries; Glover Street Market for organic/natural foods, bulk spices, and local produce
Winthrop (25 miles): Methow Valley Thriftway (open 7am-10pm daily) and downtown sporting goods outfitters
Mazama (35 miles): Mazama Store and Goat's Beard Mountain Supplies for last-minute gear

Mail Drops: Not applicable for this loop.

Hazards & Challenges

Black Bears: Multiple bear encounters reported in the wilderness. Make noise on blind corners and when hiking downwind. Bear canisters or proper hang systems are essential and now required by forest order. Store all food and scented items properly.

Angel Staircase Exposure: The steepest section gains 1,000 feet over 1.45 miles across an exposed ridgeline. Well-maintained granite cobble trail but can be hazardous with snow or ice. The east side descent is brief but steep. Views down to Cooney Lake are spectacular but watch your footing.

Early Season Snow: Before mid-July, snow lingers on north-facing slopes and at the Angel Staircase pass (7,100+ feet). Post-holing and routefinding challenges possible. The Cooney Lake descent is particularly treacherous with snow.

Lightning Risk: Exposed ridgeline at Angel Staircase is vulnerable during afternoon thunderstorms (common July-August). Start early to cross high terrain by noon.

Smoke: Wildfire smoke has affected the area in recent years, particularly in late July and August. Check air quality forecasts before departure.

Trail Conditions: Generally excellent—well-maintained with good tread throughout. Popular with horses, so expect stock traffic and wider trail corridors in some sections.

Wildlife: No rattlesnake reports at this elevation, but always watch where you place hands and feet in rocky areas.

Getting There

From Seattle (211 miles, 4 hours): Take US-2 east over Stevens Pass to Wenatchee, then US-97 north to Pateros. From Pateros, drive north on Highway 153 for 12 miles. Turn left onto Okanogan County Road 1029 (Gold Creek Loop Road) for a short distance, then turn left onto County Road 1034 (Gold Creek Road). This becomes Forest Service Road 4340. Continue 6 miles to Forest Service Road 4340-300 (Crater Creek Road) and drive 4.6 miles to the trailhead at 4,700 feet elevation.

From Spokane (176 miles, 3.25 hours): Take US-2 west through Coulee Dam, then Highway 153 north from Pateros. Spokane International Airport (GEG) is closer than Seattle-Tacoma (SEA).

Road Conditions: Standard passenger cars can typically access the trailhead, but Forest Service Road 4340-300 is unpaved and may be rough in spots. High-clearance vehicles recommended after heavy rain. Check with Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest for current road status.

Facilities: Vault toilet, stock ramp and hitch rails, stock water, and picnic tables at trailhead. Large parking area but can fill during peak larch season weekends. Crater Creek Campground is nearby for pre-trip camping.

Shuttle Services: Methow Motion ((509) 996-2894, methowmotion20.com) operates under USFS permit and provides trailhead shuttles, though this is a loop so shuttles aren't necessary.

Airports: Wenatchee (EAT) is the closest commercial airport at 94 miles. Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) and Spokane (GEG) offer more flight options.

Tips

Direction Matters: Go counterclockwise from Crater Creek. The first day to Eagle Lakes (6-7 miles) is manageable, and you'll hit the challenging Angel Staircase when you're warmed up. Clockwise frontloads the difficulty and puts you on drier Eagle Lake Trail at the end when water matters most.

Larch Timing is Everything: If visiting for golden larches, check recent trip reports on Washington Trails Association a week before your trip. Peak color shifts 5-7 days depending on weather. Historically, October 1-7 is the sweet spot.

Camp Selection: Eagle Lakes has the most established sites and best swimming. Upper Eagle Lake (7,100 feet) offers stunning cirque views. Boiling Lake is smaller and less crowded. Cooney Lake provides sunrise views with mist and larch reflections—worth the early wake-up.

Water Strategy: Fill up at Eagle Lakes before continuing. The Summit Trail section to Angel Staircase has streams but they're seasonal. Top off before the climb.

Mosquito Warfare: July is brutal. Consider waiting until August or bring a head net and bug-proof shelter. The larvae thrive in alpine lake margins.

Stock Users: Horses are common. Yield the trail by stepping to the downhill side and waiting quietly. Don't spook the animals.

Late Season: After September 20, pack extra warm layers and expect freezing nights. October trips should include gloves, warm hat, and gaiters for snow.

Photography: Sunrise at Cooney Lake and sunset at Eagle Lakes are prime golden hour shots. Angel Staircase offers 360-degree views—worth the climb without a pack for photographers.

Fire Danger: Even if campfires are allowed, practice Leave No Trace. Alpine wood is scarce and slow to regenerate. Use stoves only.

Wildlife: Make noise consistently. Bears are active through October. Hang or canister all food, toiletries, and scented items. Store trash the same way.

Check Before You Go: Fire restrictions, food storage orders, and road conditions change. Visit fs.usda.gov/okawen or call the Methow Valley Ranger Station at (509) 996-4003 for current conditions.

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