Field trip: Conditioning Hiking Series
CHS 2 Hike - Ancient & Dusty Lakes
This will be a CHS 2 hike led at ~2.5 MPH. We'll be heading down from the parking lot into the Potholes Coulee and explore Ancient lake and the surrounding area
- Sun, Apr 19, 2026
- Seattle Hiking Committee
- Day Hiking
- Adults, All Who Qualify
- *Varies*
- Moderate
- Mileage: 7.0 mi
- Elevation Gain: 700 ft
- 8 (8 capacity)
- FULL (2 capacity)
- Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 1:00 PM
- Fri, Apr 17, 2026 at 5:00 PM
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
- iCal Google
A couple of notes on this early season hike-- while the elevation changes aren't large, the amazing geology in this area includes a lot of broken rock talus slopes which we'll have to cross-- footing will be sketchy at times so hiking poles are advised. And if you're a trail runner person, runners with rock guards will go a long way to preserving your feet. This area has pretty dramatic weather swings, so be equipped and prepared to handle rain, sun, and anything in between.
Let's meet at 9am at the Burke Lake parking lot (47.13738, -119.93233), where we'll start and end our hike. For those carpooling from Seattle, we'll help organize a meet up time/location. I have a spot booked at the nearby Crescent Bar RV park/campground that can accomodate another vehicle/tent, reach out if you're looking to share that spot. Dispersed primitive camping around the Ancient Lakes area is also readily available (and free). Discover Pass is required for parking at the trailhaed (and in the camping areas).
Required Equipment
Ten Essential Systems
- Navigation (map & compass)
- Sun protection (sunglasses & sunscreen)
- Insulation (extra clothing)
- Illumination (headlamp/flashlight)
- First-aid supplies
- Fire (waterproof matches/lighter/candle)
- Repair kit and tools
- Nutrition (extra food)
- Hydration (extra water)
- Emergency shelter (tent/plastic tube tent/garbage bag)