Hiking Near Soap Lake

Hiking Near Soap Lake

the hoover dam image by Darren White from Fotolia.com

Soap Lake, Washington, is a small lake near the Coulee Dam in the eastern section of the state. The lake derives its name from the bubble effect the mud and water create, making it at times appear as though the lake is awash in soapy bubbles. The region is high desert country, and there are plenty of hiking options in the area surrounding Soap Lake.

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.

Write for Trails.com
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