Twin LakesStarting on the north side of the lake at the parking spot, hike down the road just 0.15 mile. At that point, rather than hike all the way straight down to the lake, turn west on the closed jeep track that follows along the rimrock bluff on the wall of the coulee. This offers views up to the top of the basalt cliffs of the canyon and down to the lush western Twin Lake. Here balsamroot and desert parsleys cover the spring landscape, joined by occasional groupings of yellow bells and desert bluebells. Raptors float high overhead on the thermals that spin up off the sun-heated rocks. Hike along the coulee wall for a little over 1 mile (Note: The jeep track peters out after 0.5 mile or so--just keep hiking cross-country along the slope). As you follow the natural contours of the slope, you'll slowly descend until you are close to the lake elevation, but the route around the lower end of the lake isn't easily hikeable. Turn back here and curve back along your path to the main road. Backtracking actually proves beneficial here, as it provides a different look at the canyon. Heading east, the rock forms and coulee walls are seen from a new angle, with different shadow lines and textures. You'll also enjoy views of both lakes when heading back to the main trail/road. Once on the main road/trail below the parking area, turn and descend to the lake basin and follow the road between the two lakes. Just after crossing between the lakes, look for another old track heading to the right. This leads along the southern side of the western lake. This great lakeshore stroll covers another 0.25 mile. Continue on the path as it climbs nearly 200 feet up the slope above the lake. You'll find a network of game trails through the rocks and sage up the bluff. Ramble around at will, then return to the lakes and explore their shorelines as you take it easy before heading for home.
Driving Directions:
From Vantage, drive east on Interstate 90 to exit 231 for Tokia. After exiting, turn north (left) over the freeway, and at 0.2 mile continue straight at the stop sign. This is now Danekas Road. Drive Danekas Road 1.4 miles and turn right on Hills Road (also known as Harrington--Tokia Road). Pass the Rocky Ford Wildlife Area access after 6.2 miles and enter Harrington at 18.0 miles. At 18.5 miles, in Harrington, turn left onto State Route 23 and continue 0.25 mile to a junction with SR 28. Turn left, and in 0.2 mile turn right on Coffee Pot Road. Drive Coffee Pot Road 14.1 miles and turn right on Highland Road. Drive 1.4 miles and turn right on Twin Lakes Road/Wildlife Area access road. Drive 1.9 miles before pulling off to the left to park, just before the road drops down steeply to the lakes. Hike this steep, rough section rather than trying to drive it. Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife permit required. Recent Trip Reports
Hiked here recently?
Submit a trip report!
There are
1
trip reports for this hike.
Day hike
Features:
Wildflowers blooming
Expand report text
Hide report text
Read full report
with photos
Lots of balsamroot in bloom, some white lupine and other desert wildflowers. The steep road mentioned in the trail guide...
Lots of balsamroot in bloom, some white lupine and other desert wildflowers. The steep road mentioned in the trail guide was in good condition, no problem driving it at this time.
|
Balsamroot at Twin Lakes. © Greg Vaughn/www.GregVaughn.com
|
Information about this hike provided in partnership with
Document Actions
- Email this page
- Print this
- Share
Forgot your
New user?
