Exploring the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and Protecting the Places We Love

Protecting the Places We Love:

Best Kept Secrets of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness

The Alpine Lakes Wilderness is legendary—but beyond its most popular trails lies a world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. With over 700 shimmering lakes, rugged peaks, and endless miles of breathtaking backcountry, this is one of the most spectacular landscapes in the world.

It encompasses nearly 400,000 acres in the Central Cascades Region within Washington state and is accessed by 47 trailheads and 615 miles of trails. It's a treasure trove of hikes and backpacking destinations.

Join us for a 90-minute virtual presentation on Zoom, where we’ll unlock the best-kept secrets of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness—the hidden campsites, jaw-dropping viewpoints, and pristine lakes where solitude still exists. In addition, we'll show you how to enjoy these places without loving them to death.

Who Should Attend:

This class is for anyone that loves alpine lakes. It has information for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels including: hikers, backpackers, swimmers, and anglers. The Alpine Lakes Wilderness offers an escape into true wilderness. Whether you’re looking for an easy afternoon hike or prefer a multi-day trek deep into the backcountry, this region has something for everyone—if you're willing to earn it. And for the truly bold? A plunge into the icy waters is a rite of passage you won’t forget.

What to Expect from this 90 minute presentation:

Join former wilderness rangers, Leave No Trace educators, and Kula Cloth, for a deep dive into our alpine lakes.

• A Virtual Tour: The beauty and allure of our Alpine Lakes Wilderness
• Recommended day hikes and overnight trips
• Best spots for fishing and swimming (if you can handle the cold)
• Permits, rules and regulations
• Issues and impacts facing our alpine lakes and rugged trails
• Tips to explore responsibly with Leave No Trace principles
• Best practices for proper backcountry hygiene

Join us for an evening of inspiration, adventure, and practical ways to protect the wild places we love.

About our Panelists

TBA: Alpine Lakes Wilderness experts

We will talk about the Alpine Lakes Wilderness as well as the treasures in this beautiful area. We will also discuss the impacts hikers and backpackers have on the area as well as local emergency services including SAR.

About Bonnie Ackerman, Leave No Trace Instructor

Bonnie Ackerman is a Leave No Trace Level 1 Instructor, who is passionate about teaching others sustainable practices in both the front and back country. This passion was born out of a simple practice of picking up trash while out on walks with her family. She is currently working with her local Park Commission to develop a Stewardship Program, and is an active participant in Trail Maintenance events, along with her husband and two young children.

About Anastasia Allison, Kula Cloth, Founder

Anastasia will discuss peeing, pooping, periods and personal hygiene in the backcountry -- with a focus on Alpine Lake Environments and other environmentally sensitive areas. She'll discuss how to go, where to go and other important things to know so that you can help keep these places pristine for generations to come.