Turns out the the Ancient Lakes area is not far from my favorite BBQ place in Rock Island so when friends said they were camping above Dusty Lake I thought I'd head down and check it out!
Despite it's popularity, I must admit I have not been over to this area specifically but it was the perfect spot to be when temps hit the 70s yesterday on the east side.
I am not sure if where I started from is exactly what is described in the guide description but it is labeled as Quincy Lakes Wildlife Area on GAIA and is south of the Burke Lake West Water Access.
I didn't start out until 3pm so a large loop was not in the plan, I ended up just hiking down to Dusty and back plus along the ridge that overlooks it for about a 2 mile trek. When I got to Dusty, the cool waters were calling so I decided to plop myself down and stick my feet in. I know the water is not good for swimming but it sure felt refreshing on my toes. The t-shirt weather felt glorious, I am so ready for summer! There was a campfire ring but not reallt a flat enough spot here but there were a few further up on the trail that looked fairly established.
There were quite a few people standing over on the saddle between Dusty and the Ancient Lakes basin, a sure of backpackers on the other side. I saw several groups of hikers including a large Boy Scout-ish conga line. I also passed three on bikes, all pushing them. I am not sure how they manage as there are several spots that require hands and that lovely scree around Dusty. I hope they made it through!
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