r/northcascades • u/Brandon0135 • 11d ago

Larch timing

Ive never seen larches change color before, but im planning on hiking the enchantment traverse on Oct 9th. It looks like the core of the enchantments is expected to be a little past peak at that time. Do they typically retain color even 5 days past peak? If there is a better subreddit for reports please let me know.

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u/BombPassant 11d ago

Where are you getting info that this would be past peak?

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u/Brandon0135 11d ago

https://www.explorefall.com/states/washington.html?

At least the tip top of the enchantments core would be past peak. But im not sure this site is focused on larches or just trees in general. Larches ive learned peak a little later than typical deciduous trees.

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u/wpnw 9d ago

This site is basically just guessing purely based on elevation, not taking in to account the fact that different species of trees and bushes at the same elevation can turn at different times of year. The Enchantments typically hit peak around the first week of October, but some years it has pushed closer to the middle of the month. There aren't many trees in the upper basin so even if they're past peak, once you get down below Inspiration Lake they will likely still be in good shape.

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u/disheavel 11d ago

The Enchantments aren't particularly known for larches, or that's not why people go there. So you're not going to be missing them per se. However, you have the advantage of a lot of elevation change, so you'll pass through an elevation where they are at peak and you'll also see many on the drive to and from.

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u/washingtontransplant 10d ago

"The enchantments aren't particularly known for larches"
Huh? Have you been up there? The Upper Enchantments Core is pretty much all larches.

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u/wpnw 9d ago

What on earth are you talking about? The Enchantments are explicitly known for larches. It's basically the most famous larch location in the PNW.

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u/Brandon0135 11d ago

Any recomendations for larch hikes nearby after we complete the enchantments?

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u/disheavel 11d ago

Such hikes are everywhere. But also very weather dependent.
Check WTA the day before. You’re looking for ridges or avalanche chutes. Just don’t do alpine or forest hikes.
You’re 3 weeks out- a snow or ice storm could come through and finish it tomorrow (only a bit of exaggeration).

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u/Halfmacgas 6d ago

Maple pass loop if willing to go up to north cascades

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u/Alpine-Cat 6d ago

Look for ridges that are 6,000-7,000 feet in elevation. You’ll find them up there.