A chance to explore Billy Clapp Lake
Casey McCarthy/ Columbia Basin Herald The trail around Billy Clapp Lake provides a great view of the reservoir and area that surrounds the water.
Casey McCarthy/Columbia Basin Herald Above: Visitors stand atop one of the many cliffsides that stand above the lake waters. Below: The trail around Billy Clapp Lake provides a great view of the reservoir and area that surrounds the water.
Casey McCarthy/ Columbia Basin Herald The grasslands that sit above the lake are frequented by a number of different wildlife species.
Casey McCarthy/ Columbia Basin Herald The Billy Clapp Lake trail offers a five-mile trek around the area and manmade lake that gives the chance for visitors to see everything the area provides.
STRATFORD — North of Moses Lake, Billy Clapp Lake presents an opportunity for visitors to both enjoy the waters and shorelines of the lake, or explore the ridges that surround it.
The Billy Clapp Lake trail provides a five-mile trip around the area, with varying elevation that gives great views of the landscape and waters around them. With a 400 foot elevation gain along the trail, visitors can reach a peak point of 1,500 feet along their way, according to the Washington Trails Association.
The lake waters offer the chance for swimming, boating, and fishing for visitors. There are a number of different beaches that can be found alongside the lake for visitors. While the trail begins with a steep climb from the trailhead, large parts of the hike are less difficult treks through the steppe area.
Making the walk up to the highest points along the way present a great view of the reservoir and basalt rock that encircles the water. Taking a walk lakeside, or making the trek through grasslands that surround Billy Clapp are great chances to see the wildlife the frequents the area as well. Mule deer, coyotes and migratory birds can all be seen in the area.
The man-made lake is fed by the Columbia River, sitting beside the Pinto Dam. The lake sits between Coulee City and Moses Lake, bringing in a big crowd during boating season during the summer.
Like most natural areas around the state, a Discover Pass is required for those making the trip out to the waters.