Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park
The Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park has 15 miles of hiking trails covering desert, scrub grasslands, lakeside hikes and a path to the dry waterfall of the park's name. The area has bobcats, raccoons, coyotes, deer, elk and marmots. Bird species include chukars, eagles and herons. In addition to the hiking trails, there are mountain bike trails, swimming and boating. Pets must be leashed at all times on trails.
Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park
34875 Park Lake Road NE
Coulee City, WA 99115
509) 632-5583
parks.wa.gov
Crown Point Vista
The Crown Point Vista Trail brings you up to views of the Coulee Dam and the river basin surrounding Soap Lake and the dam area. Prepare for a strenuous hike as you gain elevation. Bring your camera.The sun is very hot, so bring hats, sunglasses, and a lightweight long-sleeve shirt or windbreaker. Contact the Coulee Chamber of Commerce for maps, directions and information about any closures or trail maintenance.
Crown Point Vista
c/o Coulee Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 760
Grand Coulee, WA 99133
509-633-3074
http://www.grandcouleedam.org/recreationnew.html
Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area
The Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, 30 minutes from Soap Lake, offers a series of nature walks and hiking trails. For a short hike, try the Mission Point Trail, a quick quarter-mile trail that provides signs and information about the history of the area. The Old Kettle Town-site Trail is a one-mile trail past eagle and heron nests. The Sentinel Trail goes two miles through the historic buildings of the recreation area.
Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area
1008 Crest Drive
Coulee Dam, WA 99116
509-633-9441
nps.gov
Article Written By Eric Cedric
A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.