Washington State has a plethora of scenic trails to explore. One of my favorites is Trail Lake Coulee out in the eastern part of the state. Though technically a desert, waterfowl flock to coulee country because of its lakes nestled in the rocky basins. Trail Lake, just south of Banks Lake, is a true gem. Year-round hikers can view mergansers, herons, and mallards.

The trail starts at the main gate and follows a dirt road for two miles over a dike that brings water from Banks Lake. The trail will take you over Summer Falls and into Billy Clapp Lake. After two and a half miles you’ll reach Trail Lake where you can stop to relax or continue on to explore unnamed coulees and local desert flowers. Where do you like to go or scenic Washington hiking?

Since moving to the Pacific Northwest I have strived to take advantage of as many Washington outdoor activities as possible. Recently I decided to take a week long vacation to Banks Lake. After exploring the trails around Banks and the Grand Coulee Dam I decided to travel a bit further to Billy Clapp Lake.

Billy Clapp Lake is a stunning body of water located behind an earthen dam. The three mile long lake is home to many animals and native plants. On my hike around Billy Clapp I journeyed through basalt rock canyons covered in lichen and up onto bluffs overlooking the expanse of the lake. It was truly a breathtaking experience worth repeating.