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Ancient Lakes via Judith Pool

Quincy, Washington

3.6/5
based on 5 reviews

Details

Distance

4.44 miles

Elevation Gain

558 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Mitch Pittman

Ancient Lakes via Judith pool is an amazing trail with scenic lake views. Come at sunset!

All around you, waterfalls pour over cliffs as you gaze upon colorful lakes. If you're lucky, a coyote scampers by through a patch of wildflowers – it's just another beautiful day in the Ancient Lakes basin, a gem tucked along the Columbia River Gorge in Central Washington.

From the parking lot, meander through a valley of sage brush under the hot sun until the whispers of waterfalls become roars. Soon, you will be peering into a basin of lakes. If you can fight the urge to jump in right away, make your way around to the waterfalls in the back of the valley.

For those who feel comfortable, scramble up the talus slope beside the waterfall to enter an upper valley for more solitude – and more waterfalls! But BE CAREFUL going off trail, because rattlesnakes are very active in the area.

Sunsets from Ancient Lakes are known to be spectacular. Another benefit of the location is it usually stays dry when the western side of the state is getting drenched.

If you're planning to head in from the southern trailhead, check out this adventure.

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Features

Fishing
Photography
Running
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Lake
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildlife
Swimming Hole

Ancient Lakes via Judith Pool Reviews

Trail is in good condition. Did 4.8mi back in to Ancient Lake and the waterfall, then back out! Beautiful winter hike!

South on Whitetrail Rd / Rd U, right on Rd 9 NW and continue on Ancient Lake Rd until you reach the parking area. I have explored the area in spring (March 2016) and winter (January 2017). Plenty of trail to explore throughout the area. There is an overlook over Dusty Lake and you are able to scramble to the top of the waterfall. In the winter, massive icicles form off the edges of the mesas and waterfalls.

Lots of wide open spaces and beautiful canyon cliffs to explore, we wanted to go off trail to scramble every cliff and see every waterfall, but be mindful of LNT and enjoy this otherworldly place. Just know that there is a road that takes you to the south of the lakes area as well, putting you 4 or 5 miles past the main lakes and onto an open plain. We got quite turned around here, and without cell service had to use a trail guide to sort out that we were on a completely different road. We also camped out here, be mindful that it is very cold in March still, but having said that, besides some coyote packs, we had the place all to ourselves.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Ancient Lakes Trail

Adventuring in the Frenchman Coulee

Rock Climb 'The Sunshine Wall'

Catch the Sunset at Wild Horse Monument

Hike to Saddle Rock

Stroll through Ohme Garden