Overview
Cashmere Mountain is one of the highest peaks in the Icicle Creek drainage. It is surpassed only by the higher peaks of Stuart Range. The pyramid shape of Cashmere Mountain is easily visible from Highway 2 east of Leavenworth, as well as from it's namesake town of Cashmere, and Wenatchee. Good winter and early spring ski touring can be had on Cashmere's northern slopes, in the Doctor Creek Area.
Getting There
From Leavenworth, head up Icicle Road about 10 miles to Bridge Creek Campground. Turn left and head approximately 3 miles up a dirt road to the Eightmile Lake Trailhead. From the trailhead, hike to Little Eightmile Lake, then follow the switchbacks to the Caroline Lakes (good camping) and then to Windy Pass. From Windy Pass follow the West ridge to the summit. Detailed route info available on the West Ridge route page.
Red Tape
Like all areas in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, the U.S. Government requires that you purchase a permit to park at the Eightmile Lake Trailhead. Permits can be obtained by contacting the Leavenworth Ranger Station. Additional fees apply for climbers wishing to camp in the area (see "Camping" below)
When To Climb
When to climb basically depends on what you have on your feet. Good spring ski touring can be had into early May most years. The main route is mostly snow-free for hiking by July.
Camping
Camping is allowed at Caroline Lakes and Eightmile Lake. The Forest Service requires a permit for camping in this area. Visit the Ranger Station in Leavenworth to obtain one. Camping is prohibited at the trailhead, but the Bridge Creek Campground on Icicle Road is a great place to car camp (outhouses and well water provided. Fee required.)
Mountain Conditions
Visit the Wenatchee National Forest Web site for trail conditions.
Leavenworth Accomodations
For climbers/hikers seeking a relaxing night or two before or after climbing Mt. Cashmere, there are several lodging options in Leavenworth. Here are a couple recommended places: - Hotel Pension Anna - Extremely comfortable & authentic Austrian-style Pension in the center of town.
- Enzian Inn - Large, elegant, Bavarian themed hotel close to downtown.
For More info, visit the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce Web site.
Interactive Map
DUSEL Info
Until recently, Cashmere Mountain was one of several sites considered for a new Deep Underground Science and Engineering Laboratory (DUSEL) for basic research in physics, astrophysics, earth sciences, microbiology, and engineering. A stong opposition from Leavenworth residents wasformed. In a July 21, 2005 press release, the National Science Foundation announced that Homestake and Henderson Mines were the two sites being considered further, effectively dropping the Cashmere Mountain site from the list of proposed sites. More information about the DUSEL project and debate can be found in the following links:
External LinksImages
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Alpine Lakes Wilderness
