Five Columbia Basin hikes for August adventures

MOSES LAKE – As August ushers in perfect outdoor weather, there's no better time to lace up your hiking boots and discover some of Washington’s trails. Here are five destinations worth visiting. Additional hiking opportunities in the area can be found at www.alltrails.com. Trails may require a Discover Pass which can be picked up at most local outdoors stores. 

The Steamboat Rock Trail, situated in Steamboat Rock State Park boasts a 4.7-star rating on All Trails. The four-mile hike, which features a 994-foot elevation gain, takes an average of two hours and 11 minutes to complete and is rated moderate. The trail is one hour and 20 minutes away from Moses Lake. 

The first section of the trail feels like walking on a beach. Once you reach the climb area, All Trails recommends taking the well-trodden path for easier access. However, there are quite a few trails that can be adventured upon. 

“It’s a bit of work getting up there, but the views are spectacular, especially at the north edge looking up towards Electric City,” said Larry AMure in his All Trails review. 

This trail is both kid and dog-friendly, making it an excellent family outing option. It also offers abundant opportunities for animal and bird watching. However, keep an eye out for rattlesnakes. 

For those seeking a challenge, the Dusty Lake to Ancient Lakes Trail in the North Columbia Basin State Wildlife Reserve can't be beaten. Rated at 4.4 stars on All Trails, this moderately difficult trail spans 3.6 miles and takes an average of two hours and seven minutes to complete, featuring a 577-foot elevation gain. The trail is one hour and 49 minutes away from Moses Lake. According to All Trails reviews, this trail offers breathtaking waterfalls, towering cliffs and occasional beaver sightings that might detour hikers.  

"The lakes are roughly halfway through the hike and were perfect timing for a swim! A lot of different terrain for views," said Jason Nida on All Trails. "Surprising gem of a hike. Loved it!" 

Hikers should be prepared for a couple of sections requiring climbing down rocks, so packing proper shoes is essential. It's important to note this trail is not listed as dog or kid-friendly, so you'll need to leave your canine companion and your mini-me adventurers at home this time around. 

The Ancient Lakes Trail, located in the Quincy Lakes Wildlife Area features waterfalls, lakes, scenic basalt cliffs and wildflowers scattered along the hike. This trail has a 4.5-star rating on All Trails. Covering 4.6 miles, it typically takes hikers about one hour and 37 minutes to complete. Despite a 295-foot elevation gain, the trail is considered easy. The trail is 52 minutes away from Moses Lake.  

"The trail is wide and mostly level, although as you approach the lake, there's some rock scrambling," said Kaye Schmidt in her review on All Trails. "We saw geese and lots of grasshoppers. We enjoyed this walk, and so did our dog." 

In addition to being dog-friendly, the Ancient Lakes Trail is also kid-friendly. The only downside mentioned in reviews is the lack of shade, so hikers are advised to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. And perhaps, a hat shaped like a watermelon to add some extra fun to the adventure. 

The Deep Lake Paddle Route, in Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park, is an aquatic adventurer’s paradise. Stretching 3.3 miles with a modest 13-foot elevation gain, this easy route boasts a 4.8-star rating on All Trails. This trail is 56 minutes away from Moses Lake.  

While the trail’s completion time remains a mystery even to the finest sleuths, it’s renowned for its pristine waters, bustling birdlife, and abundant wildlife. Paddle sports enthusiasts will find the lake particularly inviting. 

“Some of the clearest water I’ve ever seen, lots of swallows and swifts along the cliff sides; I even saw a bald eagle,” Peridot Galloway said in their review. “Plenty of fish in the water too.” 

For those looking for a shorter yet equally spectacular hike, the Little Bear Trail: Bitterbrush Loop in Lake Chelan State Park is a top choice. This trail, a mere 1.9 miles long with an elevation gain of just 269 feet, is classified as easy and typically takes about 49 minutes to complete. The trail is one hour and 52 minutes away from Moses Lake.  

Don't be deterred by the $10 entrance fee — reviews say it is worth it. Along the trail, hikers are treated to stunning views of Lake Chelan, towering trees and convenient benches perfect for a mid-hiking rest. Reviewers also praise the trail's suitability for young children. 

Remember, whether you're planning to take your children, pets, or your imaginary friend named Fred, the above trails offer an escape into nature. So, grab your hiking boots, water, pack some snacks (don't forget the gummy bears) and get ready for a day outdoors. 

    Sunlakes Trail offers a variety of Eastern Washington landscapes to appreciate with tall monoliths rising out of the ground and loads of local flora and fauna.