Trip report by G.M.
Hike up steep series of switchbacks until you start post- holing, then put on your snowshoes and keep climbing. It takes most of the day to get on top of Icicle Ridge if there's deep snow. We camped on top of the ridge right were it starts to level off and broaden some. From here we had fantastic views of Mount Stuart and the Enchantments.
On the second day we continued on snowshoes up the now gradually ascending ridge with daypacks only. This is the fun part. The ridge becomes a winter wonderland of snowfields and stunted trees. Continue along the ridge to it's highest point around 7,000 feet, then turn around come back to base camp; it's downhill now and cruising down the powder and snowshoes is a blast. Spend the second night where you spent the first and climb down on the third day.
Skip Leavenworth - it's touristy.
Stats: We did this as a three day snowshoe trip in February. Total elevation gain is about 6,000 feet.
Getting there: Park at the trail head just outside leavenworth, we had to ask for directions, but people seemed to know where it was.
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. Any trail can become very dangerous in winter conditions. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions. Please read Terms of Use.