Remember when the trail to the Enchantment Lakes core zone was just a quiet permit lottery you mailed in?

Now you need to win a hyper-competitive online system months ahead, a change that happened after 2015 when the area blew up on social media and visitor numbers doubled, so has anyone else found a solid backup route in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness for when you don't get the permit?

2 comments

2 Comments

marymorgan1mo ago

Honestly, the whole permit system feels broken now, not just competitive. My backup plan is just not going into the Alpine Lakes at all on summer weekends. The crowds have ruined the vibe everywhere nearby. I've started looking at trails way east of the crest, where you still get that quiet feeling without the fight.

daniel5111mo ago

Wait, didn't the online lottery start in 2016? Anyway, yeah, it's brutal now. For a backup, check out the Necklace Valley or Tank Lakes area. It's still a tough hike but way easier to get a permit for.