April Hikes: 2.5 - 5 miles, 250 - 1,000 feet gain - Ancient Lake

Our goal for this hike will be to get outside in a unique part of Washington and enjoy the desert scenery while returning to the trailhead safely.

We will meet in the parking area of the Ancient Lakes Lower Trailhead and do introductions and a trip briefing at 10:00 AM. Then we'll hit the trail! My hike style for this trip is social, but destination-focused. We'll keep the group loosely together (everyone within eyesight) at a pace of 1.5-2.0 mph. Pausing for pictures and plant identification along the way is encouraged! 

This hike is a loop, made by connecting several trails within the Ancient Lakes basin. The trail starts out with a gradual descent over 1.4 miles. Then the trail follows gradual rolling hills and winds between small lakes for the next 0.8 miles. This takes us to the big lake and a view of the waterfall. From there, the hike concludes with a gradual climb back to the parking lot. The trail should be dry and sandy but quite rocky and uneven, so trekking poles and hiking shoes or boots with good tread are highly recommended. 

We will take breaks every 45-60 minutes for about 5-10 minutes with a longer, 15-20 minute, snack break at the big lake. The hike should take about 3 hours, including breaks. After the hike, everyone is invited to "trailgate" in the parking area! Bring a camp chair and a lunch and socialize with your fellow participants and leaders before the drive home.

10:00 AM at the Ancient Lakes Lower Trailhead. This is about 2 hours from the Seattle area, carpooling strongly encouraged.

A Discover Pass is required to park at the trailhead. There is usually an outhouse at the trailhead, but it isn't well-maintained, so bring your own toilet paper!