Beezley Hills Preserve, Dusty Lake, Ancient Lakes

The flowers were out in force and will be for a few more weeks. Hedge Hog cactus, Sulphur and Alpine Lupine, Death Camas, Arrowhead Balsam Root, Desert Parsley and others. What we really found cool about this walk was the variations from side to side of the hills. One exposure would be rich enough to lay down on (watch for the cactus) and just over the top edge it would be almost a different eco-system form different exposure to sun, moisture and wind.

One note on leaving the Beezley Hills area. The map we used showed taking the road in and out of Ephrata. The road continuing north from the top of the hill (where the hiking and flowers are) is exceptional. It will take you through wide open plains, some under plow, others not that ramble on mile after mile. Take your gazeteer and just keep heading north to Highway 2. It is a gorgeous stretch of unchanged Americana.

We made a loop weekend out of our trip to Eastern Washington. Dusty Lakes trail was sweet at sunrise. A lone beaver and alpine glow-like colorations against the basalt cliffs were our high points there. There are also free camping spots directly on the water within walking distance of the DL trailhead. They are far from pristine or wilderness but they still were nice and at least on our night of stay, free from generators or other's music. Just one noisy Yellow Breasted Black Bird.

Ancient Lakes is best appreciated early or late as well. It is wide open and can be quite hot. There are a few waterfalls still doing their thing and many blooming wildflowers. We saw a few Black Legged Stilts wading along the shore and hundreds of Cliff Swallows and their mud nests tucked in up under the overhangs in the basalt. Camping was adequate but the water didn't look very appetizing. Considering the usage of pesticides in Eastern Washington I would bring my own.