Ingalls Way Trail

Ingalls Way Trail (#1390) is a long-distance hike in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest that leads into Alpine Lakes Wilderness to Lake Ingalls. The route is mapped as a hiker-only path and is rated moderate for a long-distance outing; expect a steep, sustained climb from the trailhead area toward the pass terrain before dropping back into the lake basin.

Most hikers access it from the Esmeralda Trailhead (also used as the Lake Ingalls trailhead). From there, the route uses trail junctions along the basin approach and connects with Ingalls Way Trail (#1390) toward Ingalls Pass and the Lake Ingalls area.

Plan around the trail’s typical length and time requirement: about 9 miles round-trip, with elevation gain reported around 2,500–3,200 feet depending on the line you follow and where you turn back. Expect strenuous effort for the distance, usually taking roughly 4.5–6 hours.

The approach passes from forested valley terrain into open alpine country as you gain. The upper sections include long switchbacks near the pass area and then a rougher final approach through the basin to Lake Ingalls, where route-finding can be aided by cairns in places.

Lake Ingalls is a popular destination in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness; camping is prohibited at the lake. For wildlife-aware hikers, the route is also known as mountain-goat country in the higher sections around the pass and basin.

Access and rules are part of the planning: dogs are not allowed on Ingalls Way Trail and Longs Pass, and dogs are also not allowed at Lake Ingalls. Wilderness permits are required and are self-issuing/free at the trailhead, while vehicle parking typically requires a Northwest Forest Pass or Interagency Recreation Pass (fee rules can vary by vehicle/day status).

Seasonally, late summer through early fall is the common hiking window; fall larches draw extra attention around mid-September through mid-October, but snow can linger at higher elevations and can affect footing and travel speed.

More information: Visitor information, Lake Ingalls — Washington Trails Association