Went looking for a bit of sunshine, and was hoping to overnight at Ancient Lakes. We found the sunshine and about 2 inches of snow still on the ground. I went ahead and loaded my kiddo in the backpack and we treated Ancient Lakes as a training hike, and then ended up car camping nearby and taking a morning hike at Frenchman Coulee.

Ancient Lakes - Both one of the upper parking lots and the main trailhead had about 10 cars in them around 2 pm on a Saturday. Passed plenty of small groups and there's plenty of space to pass folks not wearing masks. Saw lots of happy doggos, most on leash or on a good heel. There was a porto-potty at the main lower trailhead, but didn't need to use it. Went prepared to pack out some trash, but didn't see any since the snow had fallen. Had meant to bring poles, and missed them a bit with the packed snow a little slippery.

It just felt good to be out and get some sunshine. It was so cold, we could barely smell the sagebrush, but I love this landscape. The partially-frozen waterfalls were lovely.

Frenchman Coulee - Had the little parking lot and the trail to ourselves for a short 8 am hike, despite there being about 10+ groups up in the climbing areas. Less sunshine and plenty of brisk wind on Sunday, but we got to see some antelope(?) in the distance and enjoy this awesome landscape by ourselves before heading home. This is a favorite leg-stretcher, but it was the first time I got to hike it with a bit of snow on the ground. Picked up a few forgotten dog bags along the way.

Clear skies and beautiful views into the coulee. Walked to Columbia River and only one other hiker on the trail!

Taking advantage of this beautiful winter day, my husband and I decided to head east to the mighty Columbia. We have been to Ancient Lakes several times, but wanted to explore the area further south: Frenchman Coulee. From Ellensburg, it took us about 45 minutes to reach the parking area for Echo Basin. 

Tuesday was a super wet day in Seattle and I was craving sun. Decided to drive to Frenchman Coulee. My first time there and it was perfect. We did a number of small hikes and the views were super nice over Columbia River and basin. Hiked to the waterfall, which had a lot of water. I used Gaia to guide me. There are a number of trails at the top of the basalt columns, used by rock climbers. Fun to wander around. All the trails are easy, not much elevation gain.

Second time visiting Frenchman, first time hiking Echo Basin. Hardly anyone on the trail--mostly used by climbers. Nothing spectacular in the Basin but provides a nice sense of calm in the vast. Would be a nice spot to camp or spend a longer period of time when not crowded.