- Visitors to Washington and locals alike are clamoring to visit the Enchantments. This wild stretch of forest and mountain forms part of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness area of the central Cascades, just southwest of Leavenworth. The destination is so popular that hikers seeking to make an overnight trip will need to try their luck in a permit lottery. Only a select number of camping permits are allocated each year in order to preserve the wilderness character of this special area. This mountain wonderland features chiseled rock peaks and numerous turquoise lakes connected by rushing creeks. See beautiful alpine larch trees standing tall against green meadows and light-gray granitic rocks, picture-perfect scenes that will make you pause to take in the serenity. You might even meet a mountain goat or two. Getting to the most spectacular spots in the Enchantments requires some effort though. You must travel at least 7 miles and climb 4,400 feet to get a glimpse of the renowned splendor.