Ancient Lakes - Sunday (moderate)

The precise route is a little customized. It includes a couple of short, steep scrambling sections, but is otherwise relatively easy. If you need help getting up a scramble, help will be there!

This is a full-day event. Return to P&R at a specific time is not guaranteed.

Ancient Lakes area (in the Quincy Lakes Wildlife Area / North Columbia Basin Wildlife Area, eastern Washington). This spot features dramatic basalt cliffs, waterfalls, multiple lakes in coulees (box canyons), and early-season wildflowers—perfect for spring.
The plan assumes a moderate-paced group hike with time for photos, lunch, and exploration. Total hiking distance is kept reasonable for a day trip from the Seattle area.

🗓️ Itinerary
8:00 AM Meet at Eastgate Park & Ride
8:15 AM – We'll organize rides. Drive east via I-90 and SR-281 toward Quincy (expect ~2.5–3 hours;. Roads near the trailhead include some gravel—high-clearance not required, but drive carefully.
9:30 AM Safeway in Cle Elum stop for restrooms/coffee/gas
~11:30 AM Arrive at trailhead, Quick bathroom break (porta-potty often available) and group photo.
~ 1:00 PM Lunch on an overlook
~ 4:00 PM Head back to cars.
~ 6:00 PM Charging EVs in Cle Elum
~ 8:00 PM: Drive back to Eastgate Park & Ride (Time depends on group pace and traffic).
Dinner stop is possible if the group wants (not included).

🚌 Meetup/Carpool Location
Eastgate Park and Ride - East side, below 142nd Pl SE
14200 SE 32nd St,
Bellevue, WA 98007

🚻 Restrooms/Coffee/Gas ☕⛽
Cle Elum Safeway
804 W 1st St, Cle Elum, WA 98922

🚙 Trailhead Location
Discover Pass - for parking—please bring one if you have it
Ancient Lakes Lower Trailhead
Ancient Lake Rd NW
Quincy, WA 98848
GPS: 47.16010, -119.98074

🥾 Hike
Custom route - Mix of different routes
Difficulty: Easy-moderate. Some rocky/talus areas and some loose gravel—good hiking shoes recommended
Not recommended for beginners with no trail experience.
Estimated hiking time: 4-5 hours on the trail
Elevation Gain: ~600 (mostly gentle, with a couple of short steep sections near the lakes).
Break for lunch to enjoy an awesome view.

Similar Hikes
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/ancient-lakes-trail-via-judith-pool
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/dusty-lake-to-ancient-lakes
https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/ancient-lakes
https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/dusty-lake

🌤️ Weather
Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. High around 65° F.
Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph.

🎒 What to Bring
Drivers: Washington Discover Pass for parking (required at trailhead).
Riders: $30 for gas for drivers. Cash is great! Venmo and Zelle also work
Warm clothes, layers for possible wind
Sturdy hiking shoes/boots (trail can be rocky and dusty).
Lots of water (1–3 liters)
Lunch, snacks
Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Trekking poles (optional but helpful on descents).

⚠️ Disclaimer
When you RSVP and attend this hike you are accepting that you are fully aware that you are responsible for your own safety. Always be aware of your own physical abilities and go on this hike prepared.
RSVP policy: If your plans change please change your RSVP as soon as you know.

💬 Questions
A private WhatsApp link will be visible to those who RSVP