Washington State Early Spring Hiking
Ancient Lakes - Quincy, Wa
Distance: 4.95 miles
Elevation Gain: 372
Activity: Trail run/hike
All Trails LINK
Ancient Lakes Watercolor Sketch
It was a glorious spring day to head out into the Washington desert and soak up a 70 degree day! We got a bit of a late start, considering the 2.5 hour drive from Spokane, making it to the Ancient Lakes Trailhead around 1pm. I've heard about this trail for years but hadn't previously made the journey to the center of the state to explore it. That being said, I was SHOCKED by the number of cars at the trailhead. Being from the east side of the state I'm not accustomed to packed trailheads. Even with a million cars in the dusty lot, the trails were more spacious than I would have expected.
I set out for a trail run, the scent of fresh sage filling the air, the giggling of children, the wagging of dog tails and smiles from the occasional passing hiker or mountain biker.
As I got closer to the lakes, tents began popping up left and right. I have never seen so many backpackers all in one place, and yet... they all had plenty of space to themselves. I would be curious what it sounds like as the sun sets and the laughing of jolly campers echo across the canyon.
Hikers pass two separate lakes with large meadows for camping and fire pits in place. The lakes are gorgeous, accessible and their appeared to be a large boulder to jump off of at the larger lake.
The closer one gets to the waterfall the more rugged the trail gets. Once approaching the shore of the second lake, running was out of the question and I entered more of a scramble across the boulders and loose rock. I saw several people scramble up to the waterfall and have a heck of a time getting back down.
What is the 365 Challenge?
This was also my first hike once signing up for the 365 Challenge. For those that don't know, the goal of the challenge is to move 365 miles in 365 days. Find out more HERE
3 comments
Thank you so much for the kind comments.
The hike to the waterfall was right around 2 miles in although i did not clock that milestone exactly.
Thanks for your amazing report! Is this the upper or lower trailhead take us to the waterfall? How far of hikes to the waterfall and see lake around?
Wow. What a special trip report. I love your positivity and the artwork is such an amazing way to capture the outing.