Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

RECREATION

Wilderness Areas

A designated Wilderness area is where the earth and its community of life are untrammeled by man and humans are the visitors. Through federal and state laws, 48 percent of the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is designated as Wilderness.  A wide variety of plants and animals can be found in these areas. You will find that each wilderness area provides a unique and primitive experience as well as an opportunity to discover learning in a natural setting.

Wilderness Regulations

The goal of wilderness management is to provide pristine wilderness. Keeping wilderness intact requires some regulations. Visitors can help preserve this unique landscape by carefully planning their visit and following the regulations. Each wilderness may also have additional regulations and requirements specific to that area.

Regulations

Wilderness Permits

A Recreation Pass is required to park a vehicle at trailheads leading into the wilderness areas.

All visitors to Alpine Lakes Wilderness May 15 to October 31 need a permit. Day-use and overnight visitors may obtain a free, self-issue permit at ranger stations and trailheads. A copy of the permit is carried and a portion is deposited in the trailhead box. The Wenatchee River Ranger District charges for overnight camping in the Enchantment area of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. The Enchantment Permit Area is comprised of five zones that encompass Snow, Colchuck, Stuart, Eightmile and Caroline Lakes and the trails leading to them. Fees for the 2009 season are $5 per-person, per-day June 15 to Oct. 15. There are no changes to the self-issuing day-use permits.

Tips for Safe Wilderness Travel

Wilderness travelers should take precautions to reduce the chance of backcountry emergencies. Consider the following before you embark on your wilderness journey.

• Have proper equipment. The 10 essentials include: whistle (emergency signal), map and compass (navigation devices), flashlight, extra food and clothing, fire starter, first aid kit, pocket knife, sun protection, and emergency shelter.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you plan on being back. Then stick to the plan.
• Be aware of weather. Weather can change suddenly in the mountain environment. Pack accordingly to avoid hypothermia or heat-related illnesses.
• Treat all water by using a filter, boiling for 10 minutes, or with iodine.