Foss River/ Alpine Wilderness

We will be crossing the Foss River shortly. The river will be briefly visible on both sides of the train. The Foss River drains a number of beautiful alpine lakes in the rugged Alpine Lakes Wilderness. As we cross over the bridge, look up the Foss River for a quick view of some of the mountains in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. The Alpine Lakes Wilderness contains nearly 700 small alpine lakes. Although there are no roads in this wilderness area, there are over 600 miles of trails, some more than 8,000 feet tall, that attract 150,000 hikers and backpackers each year and make the Alpine Lakes one of the nation’s most visited wilderness areas.

The Alpine Lakes Wilderness, spanning over 400,000 acres in Washington's central Cascades, showcases breathtaking landscapes nestled between Snoqualmie and Stevens Passes. Encompassing the Wenatchee Mountains and Stuart Range, including the majestic Mount Stuart and Enchantment Peaks, it boasts sawtooth ridges, glacier-carved valleys, and hundreds of pristine alpine lakes. Geological diversity is evident, with rock formations dating back millions of years, including ancient batholiths like those in the Stuart Range. The wilderness area boasts a diverse range of vegetation, from lush temperate rain-forests on the west to alpine meadows and larch stands on the east. It provides habitat for various wildlife, from black-tailed deer to mountain goats and a multitude of bird species. Despite its popularity, the region requires permits for access during peak seasons to manage visitor impact and preserve its fragile ecosystem. Renowned for its rock-climbing opportunities, particularly in the Enchantment Lakes area, and traversed by the Pacific Crest Trail, the Alpine Lakes Wilderness offers unparalleled outdoor experiences for adventurers seeking solace in nature's embrace.

Visit wilderness. (n.d.). https://wilderness.net/visit-wilderness/?ID=8