2011 Eastern Washington Tales of Adventure Travel Guide

CAMPING

HIKING

BOATING

FISHING

GOLFING

AND MORE!

FREE TRAVEL GUIDE!

2011E D I T I O NE D I T I O N

Photo by DesignSyndicateDry Falls Overlook

Disclaimer: Activities outlined in this travel guide can be dangerous. Please be careful. Tales of Adventure does not warrant conditions on or the safety of any site, and assumes no liability for injuries suffered as a result of travel or other activities associated with use of this guide.

ou have some time off from work, the bags are packed and you have

a full tank of gas in the car. Now there is just one thing left to de-

cide... vacation or adventure. You could go on another typical vacation,

complete with run-of-the-mill tourist traps, overpriced souvenir shops,

and maybe even an encounter with a furry theme park mascot anxious

to charge you $7.50 for a “keepsake memory” photo. On the other hand,

if you’d like to try something different, you could embark on an adven-

ture. An adventure that takes you off the beaten path, sometimes literally,

and explores the back roads, small towns, and hidden gems that make

America great. This travel guide can help plan your next adventure along

the Coulee Corridor National Scenic Byway and Lake Roosevelt National

Recreation Area. We have listed places to go, things to do and sights to

see. Just remember to be safe, clean up after yourself and listen to your

mother when she tells you to bring along a jacket. Above all remember to

enjoy the adventure! (We know you will)

Y

-The Tales of Adventure Team

C A M P I N G

F I S H I N G & B O A T I N G

H I K I N G

B I R D W A T C H I N G

G O L F I N G

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Designed, Written & Produced by:

P.O. Box 28904 Spokane, WA 99228w w w.design-syndicate.net

Art Director: Dale Fraser, DesignSyndicate - [email protected] Editor: Corinne IsaakContributing Photographers: Teresia Calena, Nathan Clark, Julie Dingman, Dale Fraser, Janna Isaak, David Lee, Beth Maday, Mary Requejo, Lucia Sanchez, Nick Swan, Ryan Weaver, Lee Wolfe, Gareth Young, Sierralara.com, Sun Banks Lake Golf Club Advertising Sales: Corinne Isaak - [email protected]

DESIGNSYNDICATE

Eastern Washington Tales of Adventure Trip and Travel Guide ©2011 DesignSyndicate. All rights reserved. No part of this publication

may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any infor-

mation storage and retrieval system, without the express written permission of DesignSyndicate. While every care has been taken in the

collection and presentation of information contained herein to ensure correctness and currency, such information is subject to change

without notice. DesignSyndicate nor any affiliates accept any responsibility for such changes or for typographical or other errors.

Photo by DesignSyndicate

Summertime Fun at Blue Lake

Lake Roosevelt at Seven BaysPhoto by Lee Wolfe

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CAMPING

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“A good s tor y becomes

a great s tor y i f to ld

‘ round a campf i re . ”- A n o n y m o u s

Steamboat Rock S

tate Park

Photo by DesignSyndicate CAMPING

The Coulee Corridor and Lake Roos-evelt areas offer a diverse selection when it comes to spending the night

in the great outdoors. From the rocky, sagebrush locales along the southern half of the Corridor to the pine canopied, lake shore sites along the upper Roosevelt. In between there are many great adven-tures awaiting you. Whether you are a tent camper, RV aficionado, or cabin dweller, you can camp on the beach, in the moun-tains, or at the foot of a towering cliff of sol-id rock. Some campgrounds offer modern conveniences like electricity, running water flush toilets and WiFi access while other lo-cations provide a primitive, “get away from it all” sort of experience. What we’re getting at is whatever type of camping you desire, Eastern Washington has you covered. In this chapter you can find camp-ground locations (with GPS coordinates for each one), types (tent, RV, cabins, etc.),

amenities, and contact information, includ-ing web and street addresses. When camping in the region, be aware that many locations along the Coulee Corri-dor are prone to high winds. The high cliffs on the sides of the coulee act as a funnel when the wind blows, so be sure to bring your tent stakes and keep an eye on your folding chairs and small pets... they might blow away! While on the subject of being aware, it is not uncommon to come across the Northern Pacific Rattlesnake while in the arid, rocky area of the Coulee Corridor and lower Lake Roosevelt. So always watch where you step and where you sit. Many campgrounds are VERY popu-lar with out-of-towners and locals alike, so during the Summer (especially on week-ends) it is a good practice to call ahead and make reservations, if the campground al-lows them. Holiday weekends such as Me-morial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day are often times booked solid, sometimes many months or a year in advance. If you are hoping to catch a glimpse of some wildlife, you are in luck. In addi-tion to being a very popular destination for bird watchers (see page 48), the area is home to badgers, bears, bobcats, cougars, coyotes, deer, elk, otters, rabbits, and yes, skunks too. Who knows, if you keep your eyes peeled you might even spot Bigfoot.

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w w w . t a l e s o f a d v e n t u r e g u i d e . c o m

C A M P I N G

Potholes State Park1

6762 Highway 262 East • Othello, WA 99344Reservations: Online or 888.226.7688www: http://www.parks.wa.gov/parksGPS: 46.97088,-119.34869

TYPE/#: Tent (61), Utility (60)Amenities: 4 Restrooms (2 ADA), 4 Showers (2 ADA), Group Camping, Picnic Area, Dump Station

Named not for a city street in disrepair but instead for the ice age flood created “mini-lakes” found in the area, Potholes State Park sits on the southwestern shore of Potholes Reservoir (aka O’Sullivan Reservoir). The park totals 640 acres and includes 6,000 feet of freshwater shoreline. Both tent and RV camping sites are available. There is also a group camp for 50 or fewer people. Despite the surrounding area being classified as desert terrain, you wouldn’t know it while inside the park. Several large grassy areas framed by tall poplars and stately shade trees are just waiting for you to enjoy. A year-round creek near the group camp offers bass and trout fishing. The park is open all year for camping and day use. Check-in time for camping is 2:30pm, check-out is at 1pm, and you will be asked to observe the park-wide “Quiet Hours” between 10pm and 6am. That means all you bird watchers looking to work on your bird calls need to remember to hold practice sessions during daylight hours only. Tweet tweet!

MarDon Resort2

8198 Highway 262 SE • Othello, WA 99344Reservations: Online, 800.416.2736 or 509.346.2651www: http://www.mardonresort.com email: [email protected]: 46.96608,-119.32036

TYPE: Tent, RV, Cottages, Lodges, Motel RoomsAmenities: Restrooms, Showers, Laundry, Marina/Boat Launch, Dock Fishing, Swim Beach, Picnic Areas, Playground, Tackle/Gift Store, Bar & Grill, Cafe, General Store, Fish/Game Cleaning Station, Dump Station

No matter how you want to sleep through the night, MarDon has you covered (some-times literally.) Want to camp in your tent? Check. In your RV? Ditto. In a cottage, lodge or motel? Ok, yes and granted. Not only does this popular resort offer a plethora of choices for your nights, they have plenty of options to occupy your days too. Swim-ming, fishing tournaments, a marina with watercraft rentals, concerts, and wine tast-ing tours just to name a few. Plus, they offer seasonal dune camping by the shore. How cool is that?

Beach Camping at MarDon


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O’Sullivan Sportsman Resort3

6897 Highway 262 SE • Othello, WA 99344Phone: 509.346.2447www: http://www.osullivansportsmanresort.comemail: [email protected]: 46.969933, -119.345919 Type/#: RV, Tent, CabinsAmenities: Restrooms, Showers, Laundry, Pool, Sauna, Hot Tub, Recreations Center, WiFi, Family Area/Playground, Golf (#3 on page 59), Cardio/Weight Room, Café Sports Bar, Mini-mart/Gas, Beauty Salon, Jet Ski Rentals, Propane, 24-Hour Security

Sage Hills4

10400 Sage Hills Rd. SE • Warden, WA 98857Toll-Free: 888.628.3066www: http://www.sagehills.comGPS: 46.92699,-119.13434Type/#: RV(42), TentAmenities: Restrooms, Showers, Laundry, Pool, Golf, Picnic Area, Recreation Hall, Restaurant, Lounge, Propane Gas.For more information on golf course, see page 59.

Suncrest Resort5

303 Hansen Road • Moses Lake, WA 98837Reservations: 509.765.0355www: http://www.suncrestresort.comGPS: 47.10573,-119.34503Type/#: RV(83), Tent(please call for availability)Amenities: Restrooms, Showers, Laundry, Pool, Water Slides, Spa, Picnic Tables, Clubhouse, WiFi, Playground, Volleyball, Horseshoes, Arcade, Small Store, Pet Area

Cascade Campground6

Cascade Park • Moses Lake, WAReservations: 509.764.3805 Phone: 509.766.9240www: http://mlrec.com/cascade-camping_23.htmlGPS: 47.13932,-119.31130Type/#: RV(41), Tent(33), Group campingAmenities: Restrooms, Showers, Boat Launch & Moorage, Picnic Area, Playground, Dump Station, Ice and Firewood available for purchase.

Oasis RV Park and Golf Resort7

2541 Basin Street SW • Ephrata, WA 98823Phone: 877.754.5102www: http://www.oasisrvandgolfresort.comemail: [email protected]: 47.28484,-119.57772 Type/#: RV, TentAmenities: Restrooms, Showers, Laundry, Pool, Picnic Area, WiFi, Hiking, Playground, Golf (page 60), Mini-Golf, Basketball, Horseshoes, Youth Fishing Pond, Convenience Store, Propane, Dump Station

Soap Lake RV Resort8

22818 Highway 17 N. • Soap Lake, WA 98851Phone: 509.246.0413Reservations: Online PDF Form or 509.246.0413www: http://soaplakervresort.comemail: [email protected]: 47.42392,-119.49679Type/#: Tents/RV(123), Rental Trailers(5)Amenities: Restrooms, Laundry, Swim Beach, Pool, Hot Tub, Picnic Area, Clubhouse, WiFi, Playground, Putt Putt Golf, Horseshoes, Shuffleboard, Youth Arcade, Play Court, Fish Cleaning Station, Dump Station

Blue Lake Resort9

31199 Hwy 17 N. • Coulee City, WA. 99115Phone: 509.632.5364www: http://www.bluelakeresortwashington.com/GPS: 47.54485,-119.46752Type/#: Tent(27), RV(69), Cabins(10)Amenities: Restrooms, Showers, Swim Beach, Marina, Boat Launch, Boat Rentals, Playground, Putt Putt Golf, Horseshoes, Groceries/Camping Supplies, Espresso/Italian Sodas, Fish Cleaning Station, Propane, Dump Station, RV/Boat Storage, Bus service to Moses Lake and Grand Coulee Dam available.

Nestled amongst the high cliffs that run between Soap Lake and Coulee City lies the Blue Lake Resort. The resort’s number one rule is to thoroughly enjoy yourself. That’s one rule we don’t think you’ll have difficulty following with all the swimming, mini-golf, horseshoes, camping and boating to do. The campground offers tent and RV camping, as well as air-conditioned cabins. The resort has a boat ramp and marina for access onto beautiful Blue Lake and even has boat rentals for those in need of a watercraft.

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C A M P I N G

Coulee Lodge Resort10

33017 Park Lake Road NE • Coulee City, WA 99115 Reservations: 509.632.5565www: http://couleelodgeresort.comemail: [email protected]: 47.57244,-119.43627Type/#: Tent, RV, Cabins/Mobiles(16)Amenities: Restrooms, Showers, Laundry, Swim Beach, Boat Launch, Boat Rental & Moorage, Picnic Tables, General Store with Tackle/Bait , Fish Cleaning Station, Gas (for boats), Propane

Laurent’s Sun Village Resort11

33575 Park Lake Road NE • Coulee City, WA 99115Reservations: 509.632.5664www: http://laurentsresort.comGPS: 47.57366,-119.42505 Type: Tent, RV, Trailer, CabinsAmenities: Swim Beach, Boat Launch, Boat Rental & Moorage, Playground, Volleyball

Sun Lakes Park Resort12

34228 Park Lake Road NE • Coulee City, WA 99115Phone: 509.632.5291Reservations: BY MAIL ONLY beginning 1/1 (printable form available online) then by phone starting 2/1www: http://www.sunlakesparkresort.comGPS: 47.59110,-119.39534 Type: RV, Tent, CabinsAmenities: Restrooms, Showers, Laundry, Swim Beach, Heated Pool, WiFi, Marina, Boat Launch, Row/Pedal Boat Rentals, Picnic Area, Playground, Golf (#8 on page 60), Mini-Golf, Water Wars, Groceries/Convenience Store, Gift Shop, Café, Ice Cream, Fish Cleaning Station, Dump Station, Big Rig Friendly.

Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park13

34875 Park Lake Road NE • Coulee City, WA 99115Reservations: Online or 888.226.7688www: http://www.parks.wa.gov/parksGPS: 47.58978,-119.39081Type/#: Standard(152), Utility(39), Group Camping(tent only, up to 75 people)Amenities: Restrooms, Showers, Laundry, Swim Beach, Heated Pool, WiFi, Marina, Boat Launch, Row/Pedal Boat Rentals, Hiking, Picnic Area, Playground, Golf (#8 on page 60), Mini-Golf, Horseshoes, Groceries/Convenience Store, Gift Shop, Café, Ice Cream, Visitor/Interpretive Center, Fish Cleaning Station, Dump Station

Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park is a hotbed of activity. Located on the northern end of Park Lake, the State Park along with next door neighbor Sun Lakes Park Resort, attract many vacationers looking to relax. Within walking distance of the campground lies a handful of lakes, several trails, a 9-hole scottish links style golf course, a mini-golf course, an amphitheater, swimming area, metal detecting area, concession stands, two boat ramps and a marina with boat rentals. Group camping and water trail camping are also available. The area is a popular spot for bird and wildlife watching, but be on the lookout for poison oak as it can be found along the trails. Located just 2 miles north of the main park is the Dry Falls Visitor Center and Viewpoint where you can take in the grandeur of Dry Falls and learn about the massive ice age floods that helped create them. The Visitor Center is open daily and admission is by donation.

Ankeny Access14

2 miles west of Coulee City on north side of Highway 2Phone: 509.765.6641Email: [email protected]: 47.62682,-119.33324 Type: PrimitiveAmenities: Vault Toilet, Boat Launch

Coulee City Community Park15

Highway 2 in Coulee CityPhone: 509.632.5331GPS: 47.61588,-119.29288 Type/#: Tent(115), RV(55)Amenities: Restrooms, Swim Beach, Marina, Boat Launch, Hiking, Playground, Picnic Area, Dump Station

Sun Lakes Resort on Park Lake

Photo by Janna Isaak

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Steamboat Rock State Park16-20

51052 Highway 155 • Electric City, WA 99123 Reservations: Online or 888.226.7688www: http://www.parks.wa.gov/parks

16: Main CampgroundGPS: 47.82948,-119.13388Type/#: Tent(26), Utility(100), Primitive Boat-in(12)Amenities: Restrooms, Showers, Snack Shop, Hiking

17: Northrup PointGPS: 47.86810,-119.09246 (West side of road)Amenities: Showers, Drinking Water, Boat Ramp, Dump Station

18: Northrup CanyonGPS: 47.86810,-119.09246 (East side of road)Type/#: 5 campsites for equestrian campers. Reservations required, call 509.633.1304Amenities: Vault Toilets, Hiking

19: Jones BayGPS: 47.88823,-119.08094Type/#: Group(20-50 people), Primitive(44) - first come, first servedAmenities: Vault Toilets (additional amenities available at Northrup Point , 2 miles south)

20: Osborn BayGPS: 47.91769,-119.05450Type/#: Primitive(36) - first come, first servedAmenities: Vault Toilets

Steamboat Rock State Park covers 3,522 acres with 50,000 feet of shoreline and is one of the most popular state parks in all of Washington. Due to that fact, we recommend that you call ahead and make a reservation, especially for stays during weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The rock itself towers 800 feet over the campsites giving the Steamboat Rock Campground a very unique and scenic setting. There is a very nice day use area complete with swimming beach, volleyball court, playground and concession stand. Several trails are in the area, including one that winds its way up to the top of the 600-acre Steamboat Plateau and another that ventures up Northrup Canyon which is popular with equestrians. There are also several trails just south of the park’s boundary perfect for walking, jogging, biking or even bird watching. Primitive, boat-in and group camping sites are also available at the park.

Steamboat Rock

Photo by Janna Isaak

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C A M P I N G

Sunbanks Lake Resort21

57662 Highway 155 North • Electric City, WA 99123Reservations: 888.822.7195 or 509.633.3786www: http://www.sunbanksresort.comemail: [email protected]: 47.92618,-119.04757Type/#: Tent (70+, including group areas), RV(100+), Cabins(20), Villas(26)Amenities: Restrooms, Showers, Laundry, Swim Beach, Lodge, Banquet Facilities, Marina, Boat Launch, Jet Ski & Ski Boat Rentals, Playground, Mini Golf, Horseshoes, Arcade, General Store, Restaurant & Lounge, Espresso, Fish Cleaning Station, Dump Station, Gas, Propane

At Sunbanks you can “rough it” in a tent or stay in luxury in a lake view villa (plus other options are in between). Whatever option you choose, your days will be filled with fun cruising the lake on a rental jet ski, going swimming, catching some fish, playing a round of mini-golf or chilling at the cantina.

Coulee Playland Resort22

401 Coulee Blvd. East • Electric City, WA 99123Reservations: 509.633.2671www: http://www.couleeplayland.comGPS: 47.93432,-119.03021Type/#: RV (65), Tent, YurtsAmenities: Restrooms, Showers, Laundry, WiFi, Boat Rentals, General Store, Clothing/Swimwear, Marine Fuel

King’s Court RV Park23

212 E. Grand Coulee Ave. • Grand Coulee WA, 99133Reservations: 800.759.2608Phone: 509.633.3655www: http://www.kingscourtrv.com/email: [email protected]: 47.93418,-118.99749Type/#: RV (32), Tenting also availableAmenities: Restrooms, Showers, Laundry, Propane, Free Shuttle to Laser Light Show for guests

Carl Precht Memorial RV Park24

Eastside Park • Omak, WA Phone: 509.826.1170www: http://omakcity.com/rv_park.htmlGPS: 48.41151,-119.51820Type/#: Tent, RV, Pull Through (68 total)Amenities: Restrooms, Showers, Picnic Area, Playground, Basketball Court, Walking Trails

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Keller Ferry (NPS)3

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 47.92681,-118.69007Type/#: Tent/RV(55), Group(2/reservation only)Amenities: Restrooms, Comfort Station(seasonal), Telephone, Drinking Water, Picnic Area with Shelter, BBQ Grills, Playground, Swimming, Swim Shower, Boat Launch, Winter Boat Launch, Marina, Boat Fuel, Dump Station (Trailer & Boat)

Keller Ferry is a popular destination, especially for campers with boats. The campground features a nice water access facility complete with marina and boat fuel depot. The site also has a comfort station, swimming area, picnic/BBQ grills and group camping. The campground is located at the southern port of the Keller Ferry, giving quick access to the north side of Lake Roosevelt and beyond.

Keller Park4

Maintained by the Colville TribePhone: 509.634.3145www: http://www.colvilletribes.com/fishing.htmGPS: 48.05152,-118.66728 Type/#: Tent/RV(22)Amenities: Restrooms, Picnic Area, BBQ Pits, Swimming Area, Boat Docks

Goldsmith (NPS)5

Boat-only campground, Pack in-Pack out GPS: NA Type/#: Tent(3)Amenities: Vault Toilet

Penix (NPS)6

Boat-only campground, Pack in-Pack out GPS: 47.91818,-118.58661 Type/#: Tent(3)Amenities: Vault Toilet, Picnic Tables, Fire Rings, Dock

Spring Canyon (NPS)1

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 47.92462,-118.95558 Type/#: Tent/RV(87), GroupAmenities: Restrooms, Comfort Station (seasonal), Phone, Info/Ranger Station, Drinking Water, Picnic Area with Shelter, BBQ Grills, Hiking Trail, Playground, Swimming, Swim Shower, Boat Launch, Winter Boat Launch, Boat Dock, Dump Station (Trailer & Boat)

Spring Canyon has all the amenities you look for in a campground: boat dock/launch, swimming area, picnic facilities, nature trail, park information station, and even ranger led interpretive programs and events. All this plus you are close to several cities for last minute supplies. The campground is just minutes away from the popular tourist destination and engineering marvel Grand Coulee Dam. Home to one of the best dam laser light shows you’ll ever see! (Summer only)

Plum Point (NPS)2


Looking down into Spring Canyon Campground


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C A M P I N G

Jones Bay (NPS)7

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 47.91997,-118.58219 Type/#: Tent(9)Amenities: Restrooms, Boat Launch, Boat Dock

Sterling Point (NPS)8

Boat-only campground, Pack in-Pack out GPS: 47.87635,-118.46813 Type/#: Tent(5)Amenities: Vault Toilet

Hawk Creek (NPS)9

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 47.81543,-118.32430 Type/#: Tent/RV(21)Amenities: Restrooms, Drinking Water, Boat Launch

Seven Bays (NPS)10

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 47.85605,-118.33788 Type/#: Tent/RVAmenities: Restrooms, Telephone, Restaurant, Drinking Water, Boat Launch, Winter Boat Launch, Marina, Boat Fuel, Dump Station (Boat)

Fort Spokane (NPS)11

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 47.90866,-118.31185Type/#: Tent/RV(67), Group(2/reservation only)Amenities: Restrooms, Comfort Station(seasonal), Telephone, Drinking Water, Picnic Area with Shelter, BBQ Grills, Hiking Trails, Interpretive Trail, Playground, Swimming, Swim Shower, Boat Launch, Winter Boat Launch, Dump Station (Trailer)

Located along the Spokane River just east of where it joins with the Columbia, Fort Spokane Campground offers a great getaway with wooded camping sites, a nice swimming beach, hiking trails and historic Fort Spokane right at your fingertips.

Crystal Cove (NPS)12


Ponderosa (NPS)13


Detillion (NPS)14

Boat-only campground, Pack in-Pack out GPS: 47.93561,-118.21040 Type/#: Tent(12)Amenities: Vault Toilet, Drinking Water, Boat Dock

Porcupine Bay (NPS)15

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 47.89603,-118.17641 Type/#: Tent/RV(31)Amenities: Restrooms, Comfort Station, Telephone, Drinking Water, Picnic Area, BBQ Grills, Playground, Swimming, Boat Launch, Dump Station (Trailer & Boat)

Ft. Spokane Quartermaster Stables

Photo by Mary Requejo

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Two Rivers16

Maintained by the Spokane Tribe Phone: 509.722.4029www: http://www.two-rivers-resort.comGPS: 47.90474,-118.32471Type/#: Tent(32), RV(101), Cabins(4)Amenities: Restrooms, Showers, Laundry, Restaurant, Drinking Water, Picnic Area, BBQ Grills, Playground, Boat Launch, Marina, Boat Fuel, Dump Station (Trailer)

Two Rivers is a vacation just waiting to happen. The large campground has RV and tent camping that offer great sunset views over Lake Roosevelt, as well as a gathering pavilion, playgrounds and large day use area. The large marina provides watercraft rentals, including a huge fleet of fully equipped houseboats. If that isn’t enough, there’s also the big name summer concerts at the amphitheater and the Two Rivers Casino full of vegas-style gaming, entertainment and dining experiences.

Wilmont Creek17

Maintained by the Colville Tribe Phone: 509.634.3145www: http://www.colvilletribes.com/fishing.htmGPS: 48.05473,-118.30052 Type/#: Tent/RV(10)Amenities: Outhouses, Picnic Area, Swimming Areas

Enterprise (NPS)18


Rogers Bar19

Maintained by the Colville TribePhone: 509.634.3145www: http://www.colvilletribes.com/fishing.htmGPS: 48.06965,-118.26164 Type/#: Tent/RV(22)Amenities: Outhouses, Picnic Area, Fire Rings, Swimming Areas

Hunters (NPS)20

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 48.12554,-118.23117Type/#: Tent/RV(39), Group(3/reservation only)Amenities: Restrooms, Comfort Station, Drinking Water, Picnic Area with Shelter, BBQ Grills, Playground, Swimming Area, Swim Shower, Boat Launch, Winter Boat Launch, Dump Station (Trailer)

Inchelium21

Maintained by the Colville Tribe Phone: 509.634.3145www: http://www.colvilletribes.com/fishing.htmGPS: 48.27341,-118.15096 Type/#: Group(8)Amenities: Pit Toilets, Grills, Picnic Tables, Swim Area (A boat ramp is a short distance north between the ferry and campground)

Gifford (NPS)22

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 48.28638,-118.13940Type/#: Tent/RV(42), Group(1/reservation only)Amenities: Restrooms, Telephone, Drinking Water, Picnic Area, Boat Launch, Winter Boat Launch, Marina, Boat Fuel, Dump Station (Trailer & Boat)

Cloverleaf (NPS)23

Walk-in/Boat-in campground GPS: 48.29718,-118.14654 Type/#: Tent(9)Amenities: Vault Toilet, Drinking Water, Picnic Area, BBQ Grills, Swimming Area, Boat Dock

Barnaby Creek & Barnaby Is.24

Maintained by the Colville TribePhone: 509.634.3145www: http://www.colvilletribes.com/fishing.htmGPS: 48.45283,-118.22216 Island: 48.44543,-118.21564Type/#: Tent/RV(3), Island has 2Amenities: Picnic Area

Haag Cove (NPS)25

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 48.56059,-118.15959 Type/#: Tent/RV(16)Amenities: Vault Toilet, Drinking Water, Picnic Area, Boat Dock

Sunrise over Lake Roosevelt

Photo by Sierralara.com

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C A M P I N G

Kettle Falls (NPS)26

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 48.60108, -118.11959Type/#: Tent/RV(76), Group(2/reservation only)Amenities: Restrooms, Comfort Station(seasonal), Telephone, Drinking Water, Picnic Area with Shelter, BBQ Grills, Hiking Trail, Playground, Swimming, Swim Shower, Boat Launch, Winter Boat Launch, Marina, Boat Fuel, Dump Station (Trailer & Boat)

Kettle Falls Campground and Marina is a popular camping destination. Large pine trees give ample shade and if you can get a “cliffside” site along the lake, you’ll have a nice view of the lake. Ranger programs include canoe trips and special events at the campground amphitheater. The park boasts a swimming beach, playground and softball fields about a mile south of the campground which are connected by a trail that passes through the site of the original town of Kettle Falls from before the dam existed. Also located by the old townsite is the Locust Grove group camping area.

Blue Moose Cabins27

24387 Highway 395 N. • Kettle Falls, WAPhone: 509.738.6950www: http://bluemoosecabins.comGPS: 48.65593, -118.11384 Type/#: Cabins

Kamloops Island (NPS)28

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 48.67864, -118.11706 Type/#: Tent/RV(17)Amenities: Vault Toilet, Drinking Water, Boat Dock

Kettle River (NPS)29

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 48.71501, -118.12157 Type/#: Tent/RV(13)Amenities: Vault Toilet, Drinking Water, Boat Dock

Marcus Island (NPS)30

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 48.66921, -118.05329 Type/#: Tent/RV(27)Amenities: Vault Toilet, Comfort Station, Drinking Water, Picnic Area, Swimming Area, Boat Launch, Dump Station (Trailer)

Summer Island (NPS)31


Evans (NPS)32

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 48.69926,-118.01750Type/#: Tent/RV(43), Group(1/reservation only)Amenities: Restrooms, Comfort Station(seasonal), Drinking Water, Picnic Area with Shelter, BBQ Grills, Swimming Area, Swim Shower, Boat Launch, Boat Dock, Dump Station (Trailer)

Snag Cove (NPS)33

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 48.73341,-118.06003 Type/#: Tent/RV(9)Amenities: Vault Toilet, Drinking Water, Boat Launch, Boat Dock

North Gorge (NPS)34

Reservations: 877.444.6777 or www.recreation.govGPS: 48.78642,-118.00312 Type/#: Tent/RV(12)Amenities: Vault Toilet, Drinking Water, Boat Launch, Boat Dock

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FISHING & BOATING

Photo © Nick Swan

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Columbia National Wildlife

Refuge

“A l ake carr i es you in to recesses o f f ee l ing

o ther wise impenetrab le . ”-W i l l i a m Wo r d s w o r t h

Photo by David Lee FISHING & BOATING

What’s better than a summer day, a bunch of friends, a shimmering lake, some fishing gear and a boat?

It is a combination that can’t be beat. Sure, you always run the risk of one goofball standing at the bow screaming, “I’m king of the world!” or “I’m on a boat!”. Once you take a look around at the scenery and start catching some hefty Bass, Walleye or Trout you will realize it’s all worth it. Listed in this chapter are the major bodies of water found along the Coulee Corridor and Lake Roosevelt areas, along with some basic stats, including size in acres, dates that fishing is open and the species of fish found in each location. In addition, we have listed each water access point, be it a boat launch, marina, hand launch or fishing dock. If it is an established spot to gain access to the water, it is listed here along with directions on how to find it, GPS coordinates, and specifics on the

site such as boat launch surface type/grade and extras such as restrooms, swimming area, marine fuel, etc. Most of the access sites fall under the jurisdiction of just a handful of different government or tribal agencies. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), National Park Ser-vice (NPS), Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), Washington State Parks and Recreation Department (WSP), Colville Confederated Tribes and the Spo-kane Tribe of Indians are the ones you will see the most (along with some county, city and commercial access sites.) Each of these agencies have their own rules & regula-tions (see page 24) so you should be aware before you go and pay attention to any posted rules, so that you are in the know. Nothing can ruin a fun day in the sun faster than a fine or citation. You may notice that several WDFW access points allow camping, yet most of those are not listed in this guide’s camping chapter. What’s up with that? The reason is that these sites, while they do allow camp-ing, do not have any designated spots spe-cifically for camping and do not offer run-ning water or electricity. Fishing and boating along the Corri-dor and on Lake Roosevelt are a great way to relax and relish Washington’s Summers. Have fun, be safe, and enjoy the water!

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F I S H I N G & B O AT I N G

Scooteney Reservoir1

Acres: 685 Dates Open: Year roundFish: Bass (Smallmouth & Largemouth), Bluegill, Crap-pie, Yellow Perch, Walleye, Lake Whitefish

Scooteney Park - Franklin CountyFrom Othello, E 1 mi on Hwy 26; R (south); go 11 mi on Hwy 17; R on Scooteney Park Rd; go .75 mi to park.Main Park GPS: 46.70494,-119.02492South End GPS: 46.69992,-119.02330Boat Launch: Solid Concrete Ramps (main park ramp has moderate grade, ramp at south end has gentle to moderate grade), Loading Float

Hutchinson Lake2

Acres: 49 Dates Open: Year roundFish: Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Crappie, Perch

Main Access - FWSFrom Othello, take Broadway/McManamon Rd N for 8.4 miles. Turn south onto Solbrack Road. Follow to end.GPS: 46.69992,-119.02330Boat Launch: Natural

Lower Goose Lake3

Acres: 50 Dates Open: Year roundFish: Bass, Bluegill, Carp, Channel Catfish, Black Crap-pie, Yellow Perch, Trout (Cutthroat & Rainbow), Walleye

Main Access - WDFWFrom MarDon Resort at W end of O’Sullivan Dam, W .7 mi on Hwy 262; S on “H” SE 4 mi; L on Kulm Rd, 1.1 mi to WDFW sign, .6 mi to launch.GPS: 46.92404,-119.29514Boat Launch: Gravel (moderate grade - uneven)

Lower Hampton Lake4

Acres: 26 Dates Open: Year roundFish: Rainbow Trout, Sunfish

Main Access - WDFWFrom Othello, take Broadway/McManamon Rd N for 4.9 miles. Turn right at Seep Lakes Rd. Go 2 miles; take sharp left after North Teal Lake. Follow road .8 mile to parking lot/trailhead/boat ramp.GPS: 46.93060,-119.18248Boat Launch: Concrete Plank (gentle grade)

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Long Lake5

Acres: 25 Dates Open: Year roundFish: Bass, Yellow Perch, Rainbow Trout, Walleye

Main Access - WDFWFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 11 mi; R on Hwy 262; go 3.5 mi; L at “Public Fishing” sign, go 4.75 mi on Seep Lakes Rd; R at “Long Lake” sign, go .25 mi to site.GPS: 46.92848,-119.19738Boat Launch: Gravel (gentle grade - rough approach)Extras: Restrooms

Canal Lake6


Northend - WDFWFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 11 mi. R on Hwy 262; go 3.5 mi. L on Seep Lakes Rd; go 3.7 miles on gravel rd; L at Canal Lake sign; go .1 mi.GPS: 46.93007,-119.18103Boat Launch: Concrete Plank (gentle grade)Extras: Restrooms, Fishing Platforms, Paved Trails

Heart Lake7


Main Access - WDFWFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 11 mi; R on Hwy 262; go 3.5 mi; L at “Public Fishing” sign (Seeps Lake Rd); go 3.75 mi; L at Heart Lake sign; go 1 mi.GPS: 46.93060,-119.18248Boat Launch: Concrete plank (gentle grade)Extras: Shares facilities with Canal Lake

Upper Goose Lake8

Acres: 110 Dates Open: Year roundFish: Bass (Largemouth & Smallmouth), Bluegill, Black Crappie, Yellow Perch, Rainbow Trout, Walleye

8a: Upper Goose - WDFWFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 11 mi; R on Hwy 262 (O’Sullivan Dam Rd); go 6.5 mi; L at Columbia National Wildlife Refuge at E end of O’Sullivan Dam; go 2 mi to T, turn R, go 1.5 mi.GPS: 46.94117,-119.27281Boat Launch: Concrete Plank

8b: Upper Goose #2 - WDFWFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 11 mi; R on Hwy 262 (O’Sullivan Dam Rd); go 6.5 mi; L to Columbia National Wildlife Refuge at E end of O’Sullivan Dam; go 2 mi to T, turn R, go 1 mi.GPS: 46.94592,-119.26598Boat Launch: Natural (hand launch only)

Corral Lake9

Acres: 78 Dates Open: Year roundFish: Rainbow Trout

Northend - WDFWFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 11 mi; R on Hwy 262, go 10 mi to W end of O’ Sullivan Dam; L at “Public Fishing” sign, go .2 mi.GPS: 46.96942,-119.31067Boat Launch: Gravel (gentle grade - drop off at end)Extras: Restrooms

Blythe Lake10


Main Access - FWSFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 11 mi; R on Hwy 262; go 10 mi, past MarDon, L at “Public Fishing/Hunting” signs.GPS: 46.95865,-119.29354Boat Launch: Gravel (moderatly steep)

When fishing and/or boating along the Coulee

Corridor and on Lake Roosevelt you will need

to have the proper use permits and licenses. All

sites that are maintained by the Washington

Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) require a

Vehicle Use Permit for parking and water access.

When fishing on state lands/water, you will also

need a fishing license. Both can be purchased

online at wdfw.wa.gov. You’ll also want to make

sure you are up to date on fishing rules , which can

be found at the same web site. When fishing on

tribal lands, a tribal permit will be required. Check

with the tribes for prices and purchasing locations.

State Park boat launches have a small fee for use,

as do most National Park Service (NPS) sites on

Lake Roosevelt. When in doubt, call or go online to

learn about fees and permits so you don’t have any

surprises (or citations) when you arrive!

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Soda Lake11

Acres: 180 Dates Open: Year roundFish: Bass, Yellow Perch, Rainbow Trout, Walleye, Lake Whitefish

Access Points:11a: Campground - FWSFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 11 mi; W on Hwy 262 6.5 mi; L at Columbia National Wildlife Refuge, go 1 mi to campground.GPS: 46.96902,-119.24731Boat Launch: Gravel (gentle grade)Extras: Restrooms, Covered Picnic Area

11b: Dam - FWSFrom Moses Lake, S 11 mi; R on Hwy 262 (O’Sullivan Dam Rd), go 6.5 mi; L at Columbia National Wildlife Refuge sign at E end of O’Sullivan Dam; go 2.2 mi.GPS: 46.95589,-119.23982Boat Launch: Gravel

Susan Lake12


Main Access - WDFWFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 11 mi; R on Hwy 262, go 3.5 mi; L at “Public Fishing” sign, go 2.5 mi on gravel road; R at Susan-Katy Lakes sign; go .5 mi.GPS: 46.95794,-119.20089Boat Launch: Hand Launch onlyExtras: Camping

Warden Lake13

Acres: 211 Dates Open: Last Sat in Apr - Sep 30.Fish: Trout (Brown & Rainbow)

North Access - WDFWFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 11 mi; R on Hwy 262; go 2 mi; L at “Public Fishing” sign; go .2 mi on gravel road to parking area.GPS: 46.98097,-119.15873Boat Launch: Gravel (gentle grade - uneven)Extras: Restrooms.

Fishing at Soda Lake


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Potholes Reservoir14

Acres: 28,200 Dates Open: Year roundFish: Bass (Largemouth & Smallmouth), Bluegill, Bull-head (Brown & Yellow), Common Carp, Channel Catfish, Black Crappie, Yellow Perch, Pumpkinseed, Rainbow Trout, Walleye, Lake Whitefish.

Access Points:Blythe - WDFWFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 2.2 mi; R on ‘M’ SE; go 6.5 mi; R on Hwy 262 (O’Sullivan Dam Rd); go 7.1 mi; R at “Public Fishing” sign.GPS: 46.96980,-119.33538Boat Launch: Double Plank (moderate grade)Extras: ADA Restrooms & Parking, Camping, Gated

Crab Creek Launch - WDFWFrom Exit 174 on I-90, turn L; cross freeway; at “T”, turn R on Sage Rd, go 2.5 mi; L at “Public Fishing/ Public Hunting” signs on D.5 - NE, go 2.6 mi to “T”. L at “T”; follow road to its end.GPS: 47.06650,-119.35873Boat Launch: Rock & Dirt Pit Run (gentle grade)Extras: Restrooms, Camping (very popular for RV campers)

Glen Williams - WDFWFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 11 mi; R on Hwy 262; go 7 mi; R at “Public Fishing” sign to enter access site.GPS: 46.98192,-119.25470Boat Launch: Concrete Plank Ramp (gentle grade)Extras: Restrooms, Camping, Gated

Job Corps Dike - WDFWFrom Exit 174 on I-90, cross freeway, turn R; go 2.5 mi on Sage Rd. Turn L at “Public Fishing/ Public Hunting” signs; go 2.6 mi on D.5 - NE to “T”; turn R; go 1.1 mi to “Y”; keep to R; go 1.7 mi.GPS: 47.05913,-119.41508Boat Launch: Pit Run( 3 separate access points)Extras: Boating is prohibited on the N. side of the dike.

Lind Coulee-East Bridge - WDFWSouth from Moses Lake on Hwy 17, turn R on M SE, approx 6.1 mi, L before bridge.GPS: 46.99381,-119.20819Boat Launch: Hand Launch only, no motorized boatsExtras: Camping

Lind Coulee-Island - WDFWFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 11 mi; R on Hwy 262; go 5 mi; R at “Public Fishing” sign .7 mi past “M” SE Rd.GPS: 46.98628,-119.22326Boat Launch: Gravel, Hand Launch only, no motorized boats allowedExtras: Restrooms, Camping

Lind Coulee-West Bridge - WDFWFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17, 2.2 mi; R on M SE, go 6.1 mi; R just before Lind Coulee Bridge. GPS: 46.98966,-119.20993Boat Launch: Gravel (gentle grade)Extras: ADA Restrooms, Camping

MarDon ResortFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 11 mi; R on Hwy 262 10 mi to W end of O’Sullivan Dam; R just past grocery store, R again at cafe.GPS: 46.96668,-119.32003Boat Launch: Solid Concrete Ramp (gentle grade, fee), Loading FloatExtras: Camping (see page 11)

Medicare East - WDFWFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 2.2 mi from I-90; R on ‘M’ SE; go 5.3 mi; R on 6 SE, go 2.7 mi; L at “Public Fish-ing” sign; go .3 mi; R on gravel road to water.GPS: 46.99878,-119.27318 (approx)Boat Launch: Gravel (gentle to moderate)Extras: Camping

Perch Point - WSPFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17, 2.2 mi from I-90; R on ‘M’ SE, go 5.3 mi; R on 6 SE, go 2.9 mi; pass Perch Point Store, go L on gravel road .1 mi.GPS: 46.99981,-119.27985Boat Launch: Gravel & SandExtras: Restrooms, Camping, Parking is rough & uneven

Potholes State Park - WSPOn I-90 at Moses Lake, take Exit 179; go S on Hwy 17 11 mi; R on Hwy 262; go W 10 mi. R to state park.GPS: 46.98137,-119.34768Boat Launch: Solid Concrete Ramp (fee), Loading FloatExtras: Camping (see page 11)

Sampsons Pit - WDFWFrom Moses Lake, S on Hwy17 2.2 mi; R on ‘M’ SE 5.3 mi; R on 6 SE 1.6 mi; L on K.5 SE-follow gravel road .6 mi; go L; follow road down to lake. GPS: 46.98753,-119.25329Boat Launch: Natural (soft sand), Hand Launch, no motorized boatsExtras: Camping, Informal Parking

Potholes Reservoir at MarDon Resort


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Moses Lake15

Acres: 6,815 Dates Open: Year roundFish: Bass (Largemouth & Smallmouth), Bluegill, Brown Bullhead, Common Carp, Channel Catfish, Black Crap-pie, Crawfish, Yellow Perch, Pumpkinseed, Rainbow Trout, Walleye, Lake Whitefish.

Access Points:Cascade Park - Moses Lake Parks & RecFrom Exit 174 on I-90, N on Hwy 171; N on Stratford Rd; L on Valley Rd; go 1.7 mi; L at entrance sign to park.GPS: 47.13903,-119.31483Boat Launch: Solid Concrete Ramp (moderate to steep grade), Loading FloatExtras: Restrooms, Picnic Area, BBQ Grills, Playground, Swimming, Camping (see page 12)

Connelly ParkExit 179 on I-90, N on Hwy 17 8 mi; L on McConihe Rd, go 150 ft.; Turn L; go down hill to park.GPS: 47.18613,-119.34962Boat Launch: Solid Concrete Ramp (gentle grade), Loading FloatExtras: Restrooms, Picnic Area, BBQ Grills, Playground

Montlake Park - Moses Lake Parks & RecFrom I-90, take Exit 179 (Hwy 17); go N 1.5 mi; R on Nelson St, go 3 blocks; L on Division St, go .75 mi; R on Linden Ave; go 2 blocks to park.GPS: 47.10869,-119.28412Boat Launch: Solid Concrete Ramp (moderate grade), Loading FloatExtras: Restrooms, Picnic Area, BBQ Grills, Playground, Swimming area

Moses Lake ParkFrom I-90, take Exit 174 follow signs to state park.GPS: 47.10659,-119.32772Boat Launch: Solid Concrete Ramp (fee), Loading FloatExtras: Restrooms

North Moses Lake - WDFWFrom Exit 179 on I-90, N on Hwy 17 10 mi; L on Neppel Rd; go 4 mi; L at WDFW entrance sign; go .2 mi on gravel road to site.GPS: 47.23150,-119.42729Boat Launch: Concrete Plank (moderate grade)Extras: Restrooms, Camping

North Outlet - WDFWFrom Exit 174 on I-90, cross freeway, L on Sage Rd at “T”. R on Sand Dune Rd, go 1.5 mi to access site.GPS: 47.08362,-119.33353Extras: ADA Restrooms and Dock, Parking, Camping

Peninsula Park - WDFWOn I-90 westbound in Moses Lake take exit #176, turn right on Lakeshore, right on Wanapum, R on Peninsula, L on Battery.GPS: 47.09108,-119.31146

South Outlet - WDFWFrom Moses Lake head west on I-90, take Mae Valley exit, cross over I-90 take left at T, go .5 miles and take a right, 2 miles to access.GPS: 47.07947,-119.33356Extras: ADA Restrooms, Camping

Rocky Ford Creek16

Dates Open: Year roundSpecial Rules: Catch and release, fly fishing only, and bank angling only (no wading)Fish: Rainbow Trout

Access Points:Hatchery - WDFW3.8 mi S of Soap Lake on Hwy 17, L onto Hatchery Rd for 2.1 mi to T in road, R .1 mi.GPS: 47.32188,-119.43975Extras: ADA Restrooms, Parking and Dock

Highway - WDFW6 mi S of Ephrata on Hwy 282, R access is just before bridge over Rocky Ford Ck.GPS: 47.26251,-119.45812

Old Highway - WDFW7.2 mi S of Ephrata on Hwy 282 to Old Moses Lake Hwy, L for 1 miGPS: 47.26513,-119.44834

Overlook - WDFW7.2 mi S of Ephrata on Hwy 282 to Neppel Rd, R for .1 mi, R at sign for + mi to access.GPS: 47.24719,-119.44803Extras: ADA Restrooms & Parking, Camping

Trout Lodge Road - WDFW3.8 mi S of Soap Lake on Hwy 17, L onto Hatchery Rd for 2.1 mi to T in rd, R .5 mi.GPS: 47.31797,-119.44384Extras: ADA Restrooms & ParkingShimmering Moses Lake near Cascade Park

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Soap Lake17

The frothy “suds” lining the shoreline are the first clue that Soap Lake is not your typical lake. The absence of anglers and fishing boats is the second. Then you start to wonder, ‘why are those people covering themselves with mud?’ Welcome to Soap Lake! A popular destination for those looking to cure ailments since the 1800s due to the lake having the highest mineral content of any body of water on the planet. Its black, creamlike mud is also used for skincare. The lake is such an oddity with its low oxygen/high alkalinity, the National Science Foundation has awarded grants to study the lake to explore the possibility of the presence of life on other planets.

Billy Clapp18

Acres: 1,010Dates Open: Year roundFish: Smallmouth Bass, Brown Bullhead, Common Carp, Yellow Perch, Kokanee Salmon, Walleye, Lake Whitefish

Billy Clapp South - WDFW From Soap Lake, E 10 mi on Hwy 28; L on “J” NE; go 2.6 mi to ramp area at end of rd.GPS: 47.45265,-119.25282Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (moderate grade), Extras: Loading float, Restrooms, Swimming

“Calling the Healing Waters” sundial at Soap Lake

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Blue Lake21

Acres: 536 Dates Open: Last Saturday in Apr-Sep 30Fish: Trout (Brown, Rainbow, & Tiger)

Access Points:Blue Lake ResortFrom Soap Lake, N on Hwy 17 10.5 mi; R at resort entrance.GPS: 47.54533,-119.46660Boat Launch: Gravel (fee)Extras: Camping (see page 12)

Coulee Lodge ResortFrom Soap Lake, N on Hwy 17 15 mi; R on Park Lake Rd,then immediate R to Coulee Lake Resort Store/ Office parking area.GPS: 47.57151,-119.43601Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (fee)Extras: Camping (see page 13)

Highway - WDFWFrom Soap Lake on HWY 17 go north 12.3 mi. turn right at public fishing sign.GPS: 47.54798,-119.46660Extras: No real boat launch, hand launch only.

East - WDFW From Soap Lake, N on Hwy 17, 11.8 mi; R on Moore Rd, go 1.6 mi; L at “B” St, go 400 ft. to access site.GPS: 47.55960,-119.45187Boat Launch: Concrete Plank, GravelExtras: Restrooms, Camping

Park Lake22

Acres: 341.5Dates Open: Last Saturday in Apr-Sep 30Fish: Trout (Brown & Rainbow)

Access Points:Laurent’s Sun Village ResortFrom Soap Lake, N on Hwy 17 15 mi; R on Park Lake Rd; go .6 mi; R at Laurent’s Sun Village Resort sign.GPS: 47.57430,-119.42464Boat Launch: Concrete Plank, Gravel, Loading FloatExtras: Camping (see page 13)

McLeary/Pixlee - WDFWFrom Soap Lake, N on Hwy 17 15 mi; R on Park Lake Rd, go .8 mi, L at “Public Fishing” sign.GPS: 47.57649,-119.42105Boat Launch: Natural (hand launch only)Extras: Popular for bank fishing.

Sun Lakes/Dry Falls State Park - WSPFrom Coulee City, W on US 2, 2 mi; L (south) on Hwy 17; go 5 mi; 1/2 mi past Dry Falls Interpretive Center, turn L to Sun Lakes State Park.GPS: 47.59063,-119.39548Boat Launch: Asphalt (gentle grade), Loading FloatExtras: Camping (see page 13)

Lenore Lake19

Acres: 1,400Dates Open: Catch-and-release selective gear, Mar 1-Nov 30. One catch limit daily Jun 1-Nov 30.Special Rules: Electric motors onlyFish: Trout, Cutthroat Lahontan

Access Points:Gage Station - WDFW 9 mi N of Soap Lake on Hwy 17GPS: 47.51327,-119.50147Boat Launch: Trail

Lenore Fish Trap - WDFW9.1 mi N of Soap Lake on Hwy 17GPS: 47.51471,-119.50151

North End - WDFW10.3 mi N of Soap Lake on Hwy 17GPS: 47.53007,-119.49308Extras: Restrooms

Sam Israel - WDFW6.2 mi N of Soap Lake on Hwy 17GPS: 47.47455,-119.51604Boat Launch: Pit RunExtras: Restrooms

South End - WDFW4.4 mi N of Soap Lake on Hwy 17GPS: 47.45031,-119.51033

Alkali Lake20

Acres: 293Dates Open: Year roundFish: Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Black Crappie, Yellow Perch, Pumpkinseed

Main Access - WDFWFrom Soap Lake, N on Hwy 17, 9.8 mi; R at “Public Fish-ing” sign; go .2 mi to parking.GPS: 47.52329,-119.49781Boat Launch: Natural (solid rock, very gentle grade), Gravel (gentle grade - steep drop-off at head)Extras: Restrooms, Camping

Wakeboarding on Blue Lake

Photo by Julie Dingman

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Banks Lake23

Acres: 24,900 Dates Open: Year roundFish: Bass (Largemouth & Smallmouth), Bluegill, Bull-head (Brown & Yellow), Burbot, Common Carp, Black Crappie, Crawfish, Yellow Perch, Pumpkinseed, Ko-kanee Salmon, Rainbow Trout, Walleye, Lake Whitefish

Access Points:Ankeny #1 - WDFWFrom Coulee City, W 2 mi on US 2; 400 ft. past Hwy 17/US 2 junction, R on gravel rd, go 1.2 mi to ramp area.GPS: 47.64053,-119.32151Boat Launch: Gravel (gentle grade)Extras: Restrooms, ADA Parking

Ankeny #2 - WDFWWest from Coulee City on Hwy 2. Go about 2 mi. Turn right at public fishing sign. Go .2 mi. to turn right at Y to boat launch and toilet. GPS: 47.62820,-119.32787Boat Launch: Gravel (gentle to moderate grade)Extras: Restrooms

Barker Canyon - WDFWFrom Grand Coulee on Hwy 174 go NW about 10 mi. to Barker Canyon Rd. Turn left, go 6.1 mi. to access.GPS: 47.90262,-119.16462Boat Launch: Concrete RampExtras: Primitive Camping (rough road), Restrooms

Coulee City Community Park - C.C. Parks & RecFrom US 2/Hwy 17 junction, East 2 mi on US 2; Left at East end of Dry Falls Dam to enter park.GPS: 47.61603,-119.29290Boat Launch: Solid Concrete, Loading Float, MoorageExtras: Camping (see page 13)

Coulee Playland ResortFrom Grand Coulee, south on Hwy 155 approximately 1 mile to Electric City; Turn right at the entrance sign to Coulee Playland Resort and go 100 feet.GPS: 47.93432,-119.03021Boat Launch: Solid Concrete, Loading Float, MoorageExtras: Camping (see page 15)

Million Dollar North - WDFW From Coulee City go northeast on Hwy 2. Stay north onto Hwy 155. Go approximately 9 mi. turn left at public fishing sign. GPS: 47.75563,-119.22475Boat Launch: Gravel (gentle to moderate grade)Extras: Restrooms, Camping, Big parking area for RVs.

Million Dollar South - WDFWFrom Coulee City go northeast on Hwy 2. Stay north onto Hwy 155. Go approximately 6 mi. turn left at public fishing sign. GPS: 47.71945,-119.25791Boat Launch: GravelExtras: Restrooms, Camping

Osborne Bay - WDFWFrom Electric City, S on Hwy 155 1 mi; L at milepost 23; follow gravel rd 1.2 mi to end of rd.GPS: 47.91242,-119.04880Boat Launch: NaturalExtras: Camping

Poplars - WDFWFrom Electric City, S on Hwy 155 5.5 mi; R at “Public Fishing/ Public Hunting” signs (also entrance to Steam-boat Rock SP); go 300 ft.; L at ‘Camping’ sign; go .1 mi.GPS: 47.82979,-119.14004Boat Launch: Asphalt (eroded, hand launch only)Extras: Camping

Steamboat Rock State Park - WSPFrom Coulee City, N on Hwy 155 20 mi. L to park.Main Campground Launch GPS: 47.86362,-119.11832Northrup Point Launch GPS: 47.87232,-119.09845Boat Launch: Concrete Plank (fee), Loading FloatExtras: Camping (see page 14)

Sunbanks ResortFrom Electric City, S on Hwy 155 .5 mi; R to Sunbanks.GPS: 47.92619,-119.04774Boat Launch: Concrete Plank, Loading FloatExtras: Camping (see page 15)

Beginning early to mid-August 2011, Banks

Lake will be drawn down for a U.S. Bureau of

Reclamation repair at Dry Falls Dam in Coulee

City. By Labor Day 2011, the lake is expected

to be down by 10 to 15 feet from traditional

summer water levels, and traditional water

levels may not return until March 2012.

Boaters near Steamboat Rock


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Rufus Woods Lake24

Acres: 7,800 Dates Open: Year roundFish: Smallmouth Bass, Yellow Perch, Kokanee Salmon, Rainbow Trout, Walleye

Elmer City/Spirit Ridge - Bureau of Reclamation From Grand Coulee Dam, N on Hwy 125 8 mi; L to Seaton Grove, go.2 mi; R on unmarked paved rd, go .4 mi.GPS: 48.03583,-118.97113Boat Launch: Concrete Plank (moderate grade), GravelExtras: Restrooms

Be prepared for the possibility of strong winds, especially on the northern section where the lake runs east-west. Depend-ing on where you fish, two different per-mits may be required. On the north & east shoreline a tribal permit is needed, while a state permit is needed on the south & west. Either will suffice on open water fishing.

Buffalo Lake25

Acres: 542Dates Open: Special winter season: Jan 1-Mar 15 General Season: Apr 17-Oct 31Fish: Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Bridgelip Sucker,

Buffalo Lake Fish continued: Crappie, Pumpkinseed, Kokanee Salmon, Trout (Eastern Brook & Rainbow)

Access Points:Campground - Colville Confederated TribesFrom Grand Coulee Dam, N on Hwy 155 6.5 mi; R on Peter Dan Rd, go .6 mi; L on Buffalo Lake Rd S; go 2.5 mi. L at ‘T’; follow gravel rd 2.25 mi.,then R .5 mi to end.GPS: 48.06250,-118.89950Boat Launch: Gravel (gentle grade)Extras: Restrooms, Picnic Area, Fire Rings

Reynold’s Resort - Colville Confederated TribesFrom Grand Coulee Dam, N on Hwy 155 6.5 mi; R on Peter Dan Rd, go .6 mi; L on Buffalo Lake Rd S, go 2.5 mi; L at ‘T’; follow gravel rd 2.5 mi, resort on R.GPS: 48.07122,-118.90903Boat Launch: Gravel (gentle grade, fee), Loading float

Omak Lake26

Acres: 3,244 Dates Open: Year round (Regulation catch-and-release Mar 1-May 31)Fish: Lahontan Cutthroat Trout

Main Access - Colville Confederated TribesFrom Omak, SE on Hwy 155 3 mi; R at Omak Lake/St. Mary’s Mission sign, go 5.3 mi on N End Omak Lake Rd to ramp area at rd end.GPS: 48.32233,-119.43239Boat Launch: Solid concrete (gentle grade)

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Lake Roosevelt1-26

Acres: 79,000Dates Open: Year roundFish: Bass (Largemouth & Smallmouth), Brown Bull-head, Burbot, Common Carp, Crappie (Black & White), Yellow Perch, Kokanee Salmon, Trout (Cutthroat, Eastern Brook & Rainbow), Walleye, Lake Whitefish (Sturgeon fishing is closed)For current water level information, call (800) 824-4916.

With more than 600 miles of shoreline and 150 miles long, Franklin D. Roosevelt Lake (aka: Lake Roosevelt) isn’t big, it’s massive! It is the largest lake and reservoir in the state. Formed in 1941 by the construction of Grand Coulee Dam, the almost 80,000 acre lake provides many recreational activities, historical sites and vacation paradises for you to explore. The lake’s shoreline, and the water access sites along the way, fall within three different boundaries and jurisdictions: Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area (part of the National Park Service), Colville Confederated Tribes, and the Spokane Tribe of Indians.

Of the 26 water access sites listed here, 22 are part of the Lake Roosevelt N.R.A. Boat launch permits are mandatory at all NPS launches, for all boat types. Permits are sold as a daily pass (good for 7 consecutive days, available at each boat launch) and a seasonal pass (good from purchase date to Dec. 31 of the same year, price varies depending on time of year it is purchased.) Check online for season pass purchase locations: www.nps.gov/laro

While the Lake Roosevelt is perfect for ev-ery type of boat from canoes to sailboats, the lake is known for houseboating. Several marinas including Seven Bays, Two Rivers and Kettle Falls offer houseboats rentals. It is a great way to experience the lake! It can be tricky and dangerous navigating the lake without accurate navigational charts. They can be purchased at the district offic-es, visitor information centers or by calling (509) 738-6266, ext. 115. Shoreline camp-ing is also popular within the N.R.A. bound-ary. Be sure to check the camping chapter on page 8 for info on boat-in campsites.

Fishing is great on Lake Roosevelt too. Wall-eye, rainbow trout, and kokanee are the star attractions. Check with Washington Dept. of Fish and Wildlife for up-to-date rules and catch limits: wdfw.wa.gov

Crescent Bay (NPS)1

From Grand Coulee, N on Hwy 155 .5 mi; R on unmarked gravel rd; follow .25 mi to parking area.GPS: 47.94811,-118.98738Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (steep grade, fee)Extras: Loading Float, Restrooms

Spring Canyon (NPS)2

From Grand Coulee, east on Hwy 174 3 miles; Turn L at Spring Canyon sign and follow the paved road 2 miles; Approaching the park facilities, turn right towards the picnic and boat launch areas. The boat ramp is at the lowest parking area at the east end of the park.GPS: 47.93537,-118.93508Boat Launch: Solid Concrete, Loading FloatExtras: Moorage, Restrooms, Floating Boat Pump. See page 16 for camping info.

Houseboating along the shores of Lake Roosevelt

Photo by Beth Maday

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Keller’s Ferry Marina (NPS)3

From Wilbur, NW .5 mile on Hwy 174; turn right (north) on Hwy 21 14 miles; turn left into the campground and go 200 feet. At the ‘T’, turn right and then an immediate left into the boat launch parking area. The boat ramp is at the west end of the parking lot.GPS: 47.92756,-118.69234Boat Launch: Solid Concrete, Loading FloatExtras: Moorage, Fuel dock, Camping (see page 16)

Hanson Harbor (NPS)4

From Wilbur, northwest on Hwy 174 .5 mile; Turn right (north) on Hwy 21 and go 6.2 miles; Just before milepost 99, turn right on unmarked gravel road and go 2 miles; Yield left onto Gollehon Road and go 2 miles; Yield left again onto Hanson Harbor Road and go approximately 5 miles; Approaching the housing developments along the shoreline, keep to the left to the end of the road. The boat ramp is at the west end of the site.GPS: 47.92129,-118.62559Boat Launch: Solid Concrete, MoorageExtras: Floating Boat Pump 1/2 upstream.

Jones Bay (NPS)5

From Wilbur, NW on Hwy 174, .5 mi; R on Hwy 21, go 6.2 mi; just before milepost 99, turn R (unmarked), go 2 mi; veer L on Gollehon Rd; go 2 mi; veer L on Hanson Harbor Rd, go 3.5 mi; R at ‘Y’ 3 mi to Jones Bay.GPS: 47.92056,-118.58225Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (moderate grade)Extras: Loading Float, Camping (see page 17)

Lincoln Mill6

Maintained by Lincoln CountyFrom Creston, E on US 2, .5 mi; L on Redwine Canyon Rd, go 8 mi, launch area at end of Lincoln Rd.GPS: 47.82918,-118.40575Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (moderate to steep grade), Loading FloatExtras: Restrooms

Hawk Creek (NPS)7

From Davenport, N on Hwy 25 22 mi; L on Miles-Crest-on Rd, go 7 mi; R at Hawk Creek Cmpg. sign, go 1.2 mi.GPS: 47.81537,-118.33007Boat Launch: Concrete Plank (moderate/steep, fee)Extras: Loading Float, Camping (see page 17)

Seven Bays Marina (NPS)8

From Davenport, N on Hwy 25 22 mi; L on Miles-Crest-on Rd, go 5 mi; R at marina.GPS: 47.85386,-118.34106Boat Launch: Solid ConcreteExtras: Moorage, Fuel Dock, Camping (see page 17)

Fort Spokane (NPS)9

From Davenport, N on Hwy 25 23 mi; R at Campground.GPS: 47.90966,-118.31056Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (steep grade, fee), Load-ing FloatExtras: Hiking (see page 47), Camping (see page 17)

McCoys Marina10

Maintained by the Spokane Tribe North bank of Spokane River arm, between Porcupine Bay and Fort Spokane.GPS: 47.94772,-118.22141Extras: Fuel Dock, Convenience Store

Porcupine Bay (NPS)11

From Davenport, N on Hwy 25 12 mi; R on Porcupine Bay Rd, go 5 mi to end.GPS: 47.89736,-118.17551Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (moderate to steep grade, fee), Loading FloatExtras: Camping (see page 17)

Two Rivers12

Maintained by the Spokane Tribe From Davenport, N on Hwy 25 23 mi, L at signs after Spokane River bridge.Phone: 509.722.5500GPS: 47.90555,-118.32377Boat Launch: Concrete (fee)Extras: Fuel Dock, Marina, Store, Restaurant, Camping (see page 18)

Hunters (NPS)13

From Davenport, N on Hwy 25 43 mi to Hunters; L on Hunters Campground Rd, go 1 mi to campground.GPS: 48.12936,-118.22527Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (moderate grade, fee)Extras: Camping (see page 18)

Two Rivers Marina

Photo by Mary Requejo

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Inchelium Ferry14

Maintained by the Colville Confederated TribesWest side of lake just south of the ferry access.GPS: 48.27635,-118.15286Boat Launch: Solid Concrete

Gifford (NPS)15

From Kettle Falls, S on Hwy 25 25 mi; R 1 mi past Cloverleaf Campground; follow paved rd .1 mi to campground.GPS: 48.28848,-118.14508Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (moderate grade, fee), Loading Float, MoorageExtras: Camping (see page 18)

Daisy #2 (NPS)16

From Kettle Falls, S on Hwy 25 24 mi to Daisy; 200 ft. S of Daisy Store, turn R on gravel rd to boat ramp.GPS: 48.36044,-118.16340Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (steep grade, need pass)Extras: Boat fuel can be purchased 200 feet north of boat ramp.

Daisy (NPS)17

From Kettle Falls, S on Hwy 25 23 mi; R at sign to Daisy Boat Launch.GPS: 48.37581,-118.16786Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (fee)Extras: Restrooms, Boat fuel can be purchased half mile south of boat ramp.

French Rocks (NPS)18

From Kettle Falls, N on US 395 3.5 mi; W on Hwy 20 4.5 mi; turn L on Inchelium-Kettle Falls Rd; go 7 mi; turn L on unmarked rd; go 300 ft. to site.GPS: 48.49496,-118.19785Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (fee), Loading FloatExtras: Restrooms, Beach, Picnic Area

Bradbury Beach (NPS)19

From Kettle Falls, S on Hwy 25 8 mi; R at campground.GPS: 48.51409,-118.14879Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (gentle/moderate grade)Extras: Restrooms, Swimming, Picnic Area

Kettle Falls Campground (NPS)20

From US 395/Hwy 25 intersection, S on Hwy 25, .5 mi; R on Old Kettle Rd, go 2.5 mi; L on Kettle Park Rd, go .25 mi; R at campground/marina.GPS: 48.59936,-118.12252Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (gentle to moderate grade, fee), Loading Float, Marina, Moorage, Fuel DockExtras: Camping (see page 19)

Napoleon Bridge (NPS)21

From Kettle Falls, N on US 395 11 mi; R on Napoleon Rd, go 1 mi; crossing Kettle River, R on Hedland-Napo-leon Rd, go 300 ft.; R to ramp.GPS: 48.73464,-118.11625Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (moderate grade, fee)Extras: Restrooms, Picnic Area

Marcus Island (NPS)22

From Kettle Falls, W on US 395, .5 mi; R on Hwy 25, go 5.5 mi; L at campground entrance.GPS: 48.66622,-118.06518Boat Launch: Concrete Plank (moderate grade), Load-ing FloatExtras: Camping (see page 19)

Evans (NPS)23

From Kettle Falls, W on US 395, .5 mi; R on Hwy 25, go 9.5 mi; L to campground.GPS: 48.69936,-118.01943Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (moderate grade, fee), Loading Float, MoorageExtras: Camping (see page 19)

Snag Cove (NPS)24

From Kettle Falls, N on US 395 7 mi; R on Northport-Flat Creek Rd, go 7.5 mi; R at Snag Cove Campground.GPS: 48.73317,-118.05988Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (moderate grade, fee), Loading FloatExtras: Camping (see page 19)

North Gorge (NPS)25

From Kettle Falls, W on US 395 .5 mi; R on Hwy 25, go 17 mi; L at N Gorge Campground.GPS: 48.78673,-118.00150Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (moderate grade, fee), Loading FloatExtras: Camping (see page 19)

China Bend (NPS)26

From Kettle Falls, W on US 395, .5 mi; R on Hwy 25, go 20 mi; L at China Bend boat launch.GPS: 48.81015,-117.95095Boat Launch: Solid Concrete (moderate grade, fee), Loading FloatExtras: Restrooms

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HIKING

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“Me th inks that themoment my l egs beg into move , my thoughts

beg in to f l ow. ”- H e n r y D a v i d T h o r e a u

Kate Thompson

Memorial Trail in

Coulee City

Photo by DesignSyndicate HIKING

This is the part of the travel guide where we tell you to “Take a hike!” Seriously, we mean it and no you

didn’t say anything that was foolish; you didn’t do anything to make us mad either. We just think you’ll like the trails listed on the next few pages and will enjoy taking in their views, spotting the wildflowers along their paths, and breathing their nice fresh air, all while “taking a hike”. Listed in this chapter are the most popular, designated hiking trails along the Coulee Corridor and Lake Roosevelt areas. Along with each trail’s name, trailhead GPS coordinates and directions are statistics for the trail including length, type, surface and skill level. There are many more hikes to be had than what we have listed here, especially in the Columbia National Wild-life, Sun Lakes/Dry Falls State Park, and Steamboat Rock State Park areas. Those

additional trails are either unmarked trails that are more difficult to follow, “unofficial” trails that may or may not cross private/re-stricted property, or much more advanced trails that can be dangerous or difficult to even the experienced hiker. Remember, just because we are in the Pacific Northwest, doesn’t mean it’s always cool and wet outside. The sun LOVES to shine in the Summer and temperatures can hit triple digits during that time of year so prepare accordingly. Always make sure to have enough water to quench your thirst while trekking about. Enough jibber jabber, let’s get to the details. So lace up those hiking boots, rustle up some trail mix and find yourself a good walking stick... it’s time to take a hike!

Just north and west of upper Lake Roosevelt lies the Colville National Forest, an area that features several hiking adventures. These trails are not in the immediate vicinity of the lake and as a result are not listed in this travel guide. Many can be reached from Kettle Falls via a 30-45 drive. For more information go to: www.fs.fed.us/r6/colville/recreationand then click on “trails.”

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H I K I N G

Columbia National Wildlife Refuge1-5

There are more trails at Columbia National Wildlife Refuge than what has been highlighted here. (Many trails are created by anglers looking for the next great fishing hole or bird watchers trying to catch a glimpse of a feathered friend.) However, the five trails listed are the most popular. Once you have explored these, feel free to set out and discover the less traveled paths as well. Crab Creek, Frog Lake and Marsh Loop all share a common trailhead, so starting there will give you the most options. Despite their proximity, they each have a unique feel. Crab Creek follows a creek bed while Marsh Loop circles a wetland. Frog Lake is more rocky and presents hikers with an elevation gain of about 200 feet and a nice view at the finish.

1: Crab Creek AccessLength: 4 miles Skill Level: EasyType: Out & Back Surface: Dirt (service road)Trailhead GPS: 46.90085,-119.28681 Directions: From Othello, take Broadway/McMana-mon Rd N for approx 7.5 miles, turn R. Follow road 1 mi to parking. Walk across Crab Creek Bridge, trail/road goes 1 mile west and 3 miles east.

2: Crab Creek TrailLength: 0.5 mile Skill Level: EasyType: Out & Back, Interpretive Surface: Dirt & rockNorth Trailhead GPS: 46.95019,-119.25466South Trailhead GPS: 46.95019,-119.25466Directions: From Othello, take Broadway/McMana-mon Rd N for approx 5.75 miles to Morgan Lake Rd, go north on Morgan Lake Rd. 3.5 mi. Parking for south trailhead is on the left, trail is on the right. For north trailhead, continue 1 mi north to “T” intersection, turn R, parking is 500 ft on the left.

3: Frog Lake TrailLength: 3 miles Skill Level: Easy/moderateType: Out & Back, Interpretive Surface: Dirt & rockTrailhead GPS: 46.95019,-119.25466Directions: From Othello, take Broadway/McMana-mon Rd N for approx 5.75 miles to Morgan Lake Rd, go north on Morgan Lake Rd. 3.5 mi. Parking for south trailhead is on the left, trail is on the right.

4: Marsh Loop TrailLength: 1.8 miles Skill Level: EasyType: Loop, Interpretive Surface: Dirt & rockTrailhead GPS: 46.93678,-119.24449Directions: From Othello, take Broadway/McMana-mon Rd N for approx 5.75 miles to Morgan Lake Rd, go north on Morgan Lake Rd. 3.5 mi. Parking for South trailhead is on the left, trail is on the right.

5: Hampton Lakes TrailLength: 2 miles between trailheads, plus loops/spursSkill Level: Easy/moderateType: Loop (with spurs) Surface: Dirt & rockNorth Trailhead GPS: 46.95384,-119.23145South Trailhead GPS: 46.92700,-119.21962Directions: North Trailhead: From Moses Lake, S 11 mi; R on Hwy 262, go 6.5 mi; L at Columbia National Wild-life Refuge sign at E end of O’Sullivan Dam; go past dam to parking area. South Trailhead: From Othello, take Broadway/McManamon Rd N for 4.9 miles. Turn right at Seep Lakes Rd. Go 2 miles; take sharp left after North Teal Lake. Follow road .8 mi to parking/trailhead.

Blythe & Chukar Lakes Trail6

Location: Columbia NWR/MarDon VicinityLength: Up to 5 miles Skill Level: Easy/moderateType: Out & Back Surface: Dirt & rockTrailhead GPS: 46.95826,-119.29446Directions: From Moses Lake, S on Hwy 17 for 11 mi; R on Hwy 262; go 10 mi past MarDon Resort, L at “Public Fishing/ Public Hunting” signs.

Rocky Ford Creek7

Length: 0.5 mile Skill Level: EasyType: Out & Back Surface: DirtTrailhead GPS: 47.26232,-119.45823Directions: 6 mi S of Ephrata on Hwy 282; access is just before bridge over Rocky Ford Creek on the R.

One of the beautiful vistas at Columbia National Wildlife Refuge

Photo by Teresia Calena

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Lenore Interpretive Trail8

Location: Lenore CavesTrailhead GPS: 47.51601,-119.49668Length: 0.2 mile Skill Level: Easy (HA)Type: Out & Back, InterpretiveSurface: PavedDirections: 9.1 mi N of Soap Lake on Hwy 17, turn R at signs. Go 1000 feet, small parking area on L.

Lenore Caves9

Location: Lenore CavesTrailhead GPS: 47.51712,-119.49351Length: 0.25 mile Skill Level: ModerateType: Out & BackSurface: Paved, some loose gravel, stepsDirections: 9.1 mi N of Soap Lake on Hwy 17, turn R at signs. Follow road to parking area/restrooms.

The caves above Lake Lenore are thought to have been used by the Sinkiuse Indians as short term shelter from the elements and as storage for food and supplies. This popular trail is well maintained and offers a pit toilet and interpretive panels at its trailhead. The trail has some steep inclines and stairs so be prepared. There are additional caves and points of interest to be found off the established trail, so don’t be afraid to explore. Just don’t get lost!

Lenore Fish Trap10

Location: Lenore LakeTrailhead GPS: 47.51492,-119.50190Length: 300 feet Skill Level: Easy (partial HA)Type: Out & BackSurface: Paved/Dirt, tall/tight brush in placesDirections: 9.1 mi N of Soap Lake on Hwy 17, L side.


Trail leading up to Lenore Caves

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H I K I N G

Sun Lakes/Dry Falls State Park11-16

Directions: From Coulee City, W on US 2, 2 mi; L (south) on Hwy 17; go 5 mi; 1/2 mi past Dry Falls Interpretive Center, turn L to Sun Lakes State Park.

11: Boy Scout TrailWest Trailhead GPS: 47.58942,-119.39094East Trailhead GPS: 47.59127,-119.36835Length: 1.28 miles Skill Level: ModerateType: Out & BackSurface: Uneven rock, dirt and duff

12: Caribou TrailTrailhead GPS: 47.58494,-119.34816Length: 0.59 mile Skill Level: Moderate/DifficultType: Out & BackSurface: Uneven rock, dirt and duff

13: Deep Lake TrailTrailhead GPS: 47.58823,-119.34060Length: 1.08 miles Skill Level: Moderate/DifficultType: Out & BackSurface: Uneven rock, dirt and duff

14: Delany Springs TrailTrailhead GPS: 47.58998,-119.36496Length: 0.91 mile Skill Level: ModerateType: Out & Back (partial loop)Surface: Uneven rock, dirt and duff

15: Park Lake TrailNorth Trailhead GPS: 47.58666,-119.39504South Trailhead GPS: 47.57627,-119.42130Length: 1.48 miles Skill Level: Easy (HA)Type: Out & Back (plus spur)Surface: Asphalt (spur is gravel/rock)

16: Umatilla Rock TrailTrailhead GPS: 47.59099,-119.36742Length: 2.64 miles Skill Level: ModerateType: LoopSurface: Uneven rock, dirt and duff

Sun Lakes/Dry Falls State Park offers 6 diverse trails within its borders. Due to this high concentration of trails and ample camping options (see page 13), the park is a fantastic destination for hikers. All of the trails offer beautiful scenery, great bird watching opportunities and plenty of good ‘ole fresh air. The Boy Scout Trail also allows mountain biking while the paved Park Lake Trail is handicap accessible and great for skating, bicycling or a morning jog. Umatilla Rock Trail is popular as it offers an alternate, lower elevation view of the Dry Falls site. Keep in mind the area is home to poison ivy/oak, as well as rattlesnakes, ticks and things that sting in the Spring and Summer months...so be alert! For more information on these trails be sure to get a copy of the trail map/info sheet at the contact/ranger station located at the entrance to the main State Park campground. In addition to these established trails, there are many more hiking adventures to be had off the beaten path. Check with a ranger for suggestions.

Kate Thompson Memorial Trail17

Location: Coulee City Community ParkTrailhead GPS: 47.61756,-119.28832Length: 1 mile Skill Level: EasyType: Out & BackSurface: Paved (some loose gravel)Directions: North side of Highway 2 in Coulee City. Trailhead at far east edge of camping area.


Umatilla Rock and Trail

Kate Thompson Trail along Banks Lake


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Steamboat Rock Trail18

Location: Steamboat Rock S.P.Trailhead GPS: 47.86396,-119.12174Length: 4 miles Skill Level: DifficultType: Out & Back (Loop on top)Surface: Uneven rock, dirt and duffDirections: From Coulee City, E on US 2, 4 mi; N on Hwy 155 another 20 mi. L to park. Continue to parking lot at end of road by the boat ramp. Trailhead is on opposite side of road.

If you take the time and effort to climb to the top of Steamboat, you’ll be rewarded with a view you won’t soon forget. The footing on the way up and back down is tricky due to the large, loose basalt rocks that make up the steep path. It’ll take lon-ger to come back down than go up. Keep that in mind when planning your day.

Northrup Canyon19

Location: Steamboat Rock S.P.Trailhead GPS: 47.86597,-119.08250Length: 6 miles Skill Level: ModerateType: Out & BackSurface: Uneven rock, dirt and duffDirections: From Coulee City, E on US 2, 4 mi; N on Hwy 155 another 22 mi. Turn R at signs.

Take a walk between the scenic canyon walls through Grant County’s only natural forest. Bald Eagles are a very common sight here. Just keep an eye out for rattlesnakes, ticks and the occasional cougar as well. This easy 6 mile round trip hike takes you past the old Northrup family homestead and continues on to Northrup Lake.

Steamboat Rock Trail begins its rise to the top


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H I K I N G

Candy Point Trail20

Location: Coulee DamParking GPS: 47.96703,-118.98530Trailhead GPS: 47.96866,-118.98494Length: 0.5 mile Skill Level: Moderate/DifficultType: Out & BackSurface: Hand laid stone, carved stepsDirections: From west side of bridge below the dam, go north. Park in the Coulee Dam Credit Union lot, then walk north on Columbia Avenue to sign/trailhead.

Walk down the street from the Coulee Dam Credit Union parking lot and you’ll see a sign pointing the way to the Candy Point Trail. Constructed by the C.C.C. in 1937 and maintained by the Grand Coulee Dam Ro-tary Club, this trail features hand carved paths and stone steps. You can also take this trail to Crown Point for a great view of Grand Coulee Dam.

Downriver Trail21

Location: Grand Coulee Dam/Rufus Woods LakeDam Trailhead GPS: 47.96528,-118.97981Length: 6.5 miles Skill Level: Easy (HA)Type: Out & Back Surface: Packed gravelDirections: Main trailhead is at the East end of bridge below dam. Trail winds down below bridge before heading north. There are 6 additional trail access points along Rufus Woods Lake.

This handicap accessible trail is great for walking, jogging or biking. The trail is mostly flat, with the only slope being at the start near the dam. The trail hugs the shore of Rufus Woods Lake and has a loop at the far end. Additional access points can be found along Elmer City Access Road.

Downriver Trail’s main trailhead


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Bunchgrass Prairie Nature Trail1

Location: Spring Creek Campground, NPSTrailhead GPS: 47.93304,-118.94051Length: 0.5 mile Skill Level: Easy/ModerateType: Interpretive Out & BackSurface: Uneven rock, dirt and duffDirections: From Grand Coulee, east on Hwy 174 approximately 3 miles; Turn left at the entrance sign to Spring Canyon and follow the paved road. Trailhead is at southwestern edge of campground.

The Bunchgrass Nature Trail is a short and educational trip through the area’s shrub-steppe ecosystem. The half-mile trail con-tains 15 numbered posts that direct you to corresponding information contained within the trail guide (available for free at the head of the trail and/or campground information center.) The trail offers pan-oramic views of Lake Roosevelt and the Spring Canyon Campground plus a few well-placed benches to stop and admire the view. The trail is easy to follow and has a slight elevation gain. Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes and Prickly Pear Cactus.

Hawk Creek Falls2

Location: Hawk Creek Campground, NPSTrailhead GPS: 47.81455,-118.32431Length: 300 feet Skill Level: EasyType: Out & Back Surface: DirtDirections: From Davenport, N on Hwy 25 22 mi; L on Miles-Creston Rd, go 7 mi; R at Hawk Creek Camp-ground sign, go 1.2 mi. Turn into camp area, go to the end and park by boulders. Trail heads east to the falls.

Bunchgrass Prairie Nature Trail


www.youngsweldingandbasalt.com

Highway 155Electric City, WA 99123

(509) 994-9957Shop: (509) 633-0883

Columns, Landscaping,

& Landscaping Features

by Keith Young

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H I K I N G

Fort Spokane3-5

Directions: 21 miles north of Davenport on Hwy 25.

3: Sentinel TrailTrail begins at the front of the Ft. Guardhouse (Brick building on the path from parking lot.) A trail guide is available at the Ft. Spokane visitor center or online at: www.nps.gov/laro/planyourvisit/upload/2007.pdfTrailhead GPS: 47.90411,-118.30846Length: 1.5 miles Skill Level: EasyType: Loop, Interpretive Surface: Packed Dirt

4: Beach TrailTrailhead is at the northwest corner of the Ft. Spokane site, near stop #4 on the Sentinel Trail. Trailhead GPS: 47.90436,-118.31235Length: 0.5 mile Skill Level: ModerateType: Out & Back Surface: Dirt

5: Bluff TrailTrailhead is at southern edge of Ft. Spokane site, at stop #13 on the Sentinel Trail. Trailhead GPS: 47.90284,-118.30425Length: 0.5 mile Skill Level: DifficultType: Out & Back Surface: Dirt

Built in 1880, Fort Spokane was the last frontier military post to be built by the Army in the Northwest. The fort closed down in 1899 and became a boarding school for the Colville Indian Agency and later a tuberculosis sanatorium. Today, only a few buildings remain of the fort that in its prime had 50 structures. The Sentinel Trail is a self-guided interpretive trail that tours the grounds. The trail is edged with wood-en rails and includes numbered stops. A free trail guide is available to provide more information for each stop. The Beach and Bluff Trails are short offshoots of the Sen-tinel Trail and are more strenuous than the relatively level Sentinel Trail.

Old Kettle Townsite Trail6

Location: Kettle Falls Campground, NPSNorth Trailhead GPS: 48.59865,-118.12038South Trailhead GPS: 48.58608,-118.11378Length: 1 mileSkill Level: EasyType: Out & Back, InterpretiveSurface: Packed DirtDirections: Trailheads are on both ends of the trail, at the Kettle Falls Campground boat launch/marina area (north) and at the swimming/playground area (south). For more info on the campground, see page 19.

Mission Point Trail7

Location: St. Paul’s MissionTrailhead GPS: 48.62851,-118.10658Length: 0.25 mile Skill Level: EasyType: Interpretive Out & Back Surface: Packed DirtDirections: Hwy 395, just West of Kettle Falls and East of the bridge. Follow St. Paul Mission Rd. from Hwy 395 to the mission, the trail is around/behind the mission.

Emerald Lake Trail8

Location: Colville National ForestTrailhead GPS: 48.62437,-118.24037Length: 6.2 mi Skill Level: ModerateType: Out & Back Surface: DirtDirections: From Kettle Falls take Hwy 395 west across bridge, turn L on Hwy 20, go 5.2 mi., turn R on Trout Lake Rd., 5.1 mi to end of road/trailhead.

Photo by Gareth Young

St. Paul’s Mission near Kettle Falls

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“My favor i te weather i s b i rd - ch i rp ing weather. ”

-Te r r i G u i l l e m e t s

Long-billed

Curlew

Long-billed

Curlew

Photo by Nathan Clark BIRD WATCHING

They say birds of a feather flock to-gether. While we are not sure if that is true or not, or even what that means

exactly, we do know that bird watching en-thusiasts have been flocking to the Coulee Corridor and Lake Roosevelt areas for quite a while. With diverse ecosystems and geog-raphy comes a diverse bird population and this region will not disappoint. Bring your scope and a keen eye and you might even spot some hard to find birds. Listed in this chapter are some of the most popular locations along the Coulee Corridor and Lake Roosevelt to go bird watching. We have listed directions to the location, along with GPS coordinates and a list of the various bird species that can be spotted there. The symbol of our nation, the Bald Eagle can be found in the area, especially along the northern section of the Coulee Corridor and most of Lake Roosevelt. This majestic bird is easiest to spot in the Fall and Winter. One of the most popular view-

ing locations is in Northrup Canyon (see page 53 for more information), but it can be seen many other spots along the way. Another popular bird is the Sandhill Crane, who is the starring attraction of the Sand-hill Crane Festival in Othello. See the next page for more details. When out trying to catch a glimpse of your favorite bird, remember to observe at a distance so not to disturb the bird and its habitat. Staying quiet and unobtrusive will not only improve the chances of a good viewing experience, it will also improve the chances for future viewing experiences for others at the same location. The less the birds know someone is there watching, the more comfortable they will be calling that spot “home”, whether it is staying there year round, or if it is just a layover on their way to some distant locale. As we have mentioned in other sec-tions of this book, please remember some areas are home to rattlesnakes and ticks, so stay alert and be safe! For a much more extensive list of bird-ing sites, check with Audubon Washington (866.WA.BIRDS or wa.audubon.org). On their website you can find information on their birding trails, tips on bird watching, local Audubon chapters, education and conservation as well as other birding re-lated issues and topics.

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Columbia NWR: Drumheller1

Directions: From Othello, take Broadway/McManamon Rd N for 9.9 miles, parking will be on the right.GPS: 46.90408,-119.30717Birds: Red-winged Blackbirds, Lazuli Buntings, Mourning Doves, Great Egrets, Northern Harriers, Red-tailed Hawks, American Kestrels, Western Meadowlarks, Common Nighthawks, Ring-necked Pheasants, California Quail, Redheads, Wilson’s Snipes, Song Sparrows, Caspian Terns

Columbia NWR: Central Trails2

Directions: From Othello, take Broadway/McManamon Rd N for approx 5.75 miles to Morgan Lake Rd, go north on Morgan Lake Rd. 3.5 mi. Parking for south trailhead is on the left, trail is on the right. For north trailhead, continue 1 mi north to “T” intersection, turn R, parking is 500 ft on the left.North Trailhead GPS: 46.95021,-119.25485South Trailhead GPS: 46.93676,-119.24467Birds: American Avocets, Lazuli Buntings, Yellow-breasted Chats, Long–billed Dowitchers, Dunlins, Marbled Godwits, White-faced Ibis, Killdeer, Kingbirds (Eastern & Western), Common Nighthawks, Bullock’s Orioles, Wilson’s Phalaropes, Plovers (Black-bellied & Semipalmated), Sandpipers (Least, Spotted, & Western), Sparrows (Lincoln’s, Song, Vesper, & White-crowned), Black-necked Stilts, Swallows (Bank, Barn, Cliff, Northern Rough-winged, & Violet-green), Sage Thrashers, Rock Wrens, Yellowlegs (Greater & Lesser)

The multitude of songbirds in the Spring will provide a natural symphony as you walk along the Frog Lake, Crab Creek & Marsh interpretive trails (more trail info on page 41) Keep your eyes peeled for a rare visit by the White-faced Ibis too.

Columbia NWR: Unit 1 Marsh3

Directions: From Othello, take McManamon Rd. N for 5.75 miles to Morgan Lake Rd, go north on Morgan Lake Rd. At “T” turn right, go .4 mi and turn L. Go .1 mi to gate. Turn L, go .1 mi on dirt track to parking area.GPS: 46.95436,-119.25273Birds: American Avocets, American Bitterns, Sandhill Cranes, Bald Eagles, Great Egrets, Peregrine Falcons, Geese, Great Blue Herons, Black-necked StiltsPlease do not disturb roosting cranes!

Every year in late March, the city of Othello and the Columbia N.W.R. hosts the Sandhill Crane Festival. The festival runs over the course of 3 days and includes educational seminars, birdwatching tips, conservation discussions and field excursions to view the majestic cranes as well as other species. One of the many popular spots to view the Sandhill Crane is at the Unit 1 Marsh. Festival info: www.othellosandhillcranefestival.org

Potholes State Park4

Directions: On I-90 at Moses Lake, take Exit 179; go S on Hwy 17 11 mi; R on Hwy 262; go W 10 mi. R to state park.GPS: 46.98106,-119.35165Birds: Buffleheads, American Coots, Bald Eagles, Common Goldeneyes, Black-headed Grosbeaks, Northern Harriers, Red-tailed Hawks, Bullock’s Orioles, Ospreys, California Quail, Scaups (Greater and Lesser), Tundra Swans, Lewis’s Woodpeckers

Rocky Ford Creek5

Directions: 6 mi S of Ephrata on Hwy 282, R access is just before bridge over Rocky Ford Ck.GPS: 47.26251,-119.45812Birds: Long-billed Curlews, Northern Harriers, Red-tailed Hawks, Great Blue Herons, Belted Kingfishers, Western Meadowlarks, Virginia Rails, Wilson’s Snipes, Sparrows (Lark & Vesper), Common Yellowthroats

Sandhill Crane

Photo by Nathan Clark

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Sun Lakes/Dry Falls State Park6

Directions: From Coulee City, W on US 2, 2 mi; L on Hwy 17; go 5 mi; turn L to Sun Lakes State Park.GPS: 47.58978,-119.39047Birds: Buffleheads, Lazuli Buntings, Gray Catbirds, Yellow-breasted Chats, Black-capped Chickadees, American Coots, Ruddy and Ring-necked Ducks, Eagles (Bald and Golden), Barrow’s Goldeneyes, Pied-billed Grebes, Dark-eyed Juncos, Eastern Kingbirds, Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Mergansers (Common & Hooded), Lesser Scaups, Song Sparrows, Swallows, Swifts, Warbling Vireos, Warblers (Orange-crowned, Wilson’s, Yellow, & Yellow-rumped), American Wigeons, Wrens (Marsh & Winter)

Dry Falls7

Directions: From Coulee City, W on US 2, 2 mi; L (south) on Hwy 17; go 5 mi; Interpretive Center and overlook will be on your left.GPS: 47.60706,-119.36358Birds: Northern Shrikes, Townsend’s Solitaires, Swallows (Barn & Violet-green), White-throated Swifts

Steamboat Rock Peninsula8

Directions: From Coulee City, E on US 2, 4 mi; N on Hwy 155 another 20 mi. L at Steamboat Rock signs.GPS: 47.82981,-119.13471Birds: Canvasbacks, Chickadees (Black-capped and Mountain), American Coots, Eagles (Bald and Golden), Falcons (American Kestrel, Merlin, Prairie, & Peregrine), House Finches, Northern Flickers, Gadwalls, American Goldfinches, Grebes (Horned, Pied-billed, & Western), Northern Harriers, Hawk (Cooper’s, Red-tailed, Rough-legged, & Sharp-shinned), Dark-eyed Juncos, Mergansers (Common, Hooded & Red-breasted), Owls (Great Horned and Long-eared), Redheads, Northern Shovelers, Northern Shrikes, American Tree Sparrows, American Wigeons

Fall and Winter are favorite seasons for birders here. Several birds of prey can be seen at that time of year including Eagles, Hawks, Falcons, and Harriers. Plenty of owls, songbirds and ducks also make stops on the peninsula. Bring your binoculars!

Great Blue Heron


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Northrup Canyon9

Directions: From Coulee City, E on US 2, 4 mi; N on Hwy 155 another 22 mi. Turn R at signs.GPS: 47.86586,-119.08270Birds: Lazuli Buntings, Black-capped and Mountain Chickadees, Red Crossbills, Eagles (Bald & Golden), Prairie Falcons, Black-headed Grosbeaks, Red-tailed Hawks, Calliope Hummingbirds, American Kestrels, Clark’s Nutcrackers, Red-breasted Nuthatches, Bullock’s Orioles, Owls (Great Horned, Northern Pygmy, & Western Screech), Western Wood Pewees, Say’s Phoebes, Red-naped Sapsuckers, Northern Saw-whet, Chipping Sparrows, White-throated Swifts, Spotted Towhees, Warbling Vireos, Turkey Vultures, Yellow Warblers, Woodpeckers (Downy & Lewis’s), Wrens (Canyon & Rock)

Songbirds come to sing in April and May while woodpeckers are on hand to lend their percussive beats. While Northrup is also a good place to spot kestrals, hawks, falcons and owls, it is the Bald Eagles that lure birders. The best time to spot them is between November and March from mid-afternoon to dark. A viewing vantage point is a short walk from the parking/restroom area. Walk past the gate and then look for the pathway that heads off to your left.

North Dam Park10

Directions: In Electric City on N side of Hwy 155.GPS: 47.93820,-119.01756Birds: Bald Eagles, Golden Eagles, Northern Flickers, American Goldfinches, Gulls (California, Glaucous, Glaucous-winged, Herring, Ring-billed, & Thayer’s), Marsh Wrens, Ospreys, Sparrows (Song & White-crowned), Cedar Waxwings

Bald Eagle


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Crescent Bay Lake1

Directions: From Grand Coulee, N on Hwy 155 .5 mi; R on unmarked gravel rd; follow .25 mi to parking area.GPS: 47.94843,-118.98811Birds: Ring-necked Ducks, Grebes (Pied-billed & Western), Mergansers, Great Horned Owls, Cliff Swallows, White-throated Swifts, American Wigeons

During the summer you can take a guided “birding by canoe” tour led by a National Park naturalist. From the parking area you can also walk 1.5 miles on the old roads around the lake if canoeing isn’t for you. FYI: The area that is now Crescent Bay Lake was used as a hideout by 1880’s outlaws.

Eastern Kingbird


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Bunchgrass Prairie Trail2

Directions: From Grand Coulee, east on Hwy 174 approximately 3 miles; Turn left at the entrance sign to Spring Canyon and follow the paved road. Trailhead is at southwestern edge of campground.Trailhead GPS: 47.93304,-118.94051Birds: Red-tailed Hawks, Meadowlarks, Owls, SwallowsFor more info on trail, go to page 46.

Hawk Creek Falls3

Directions: From Davenport, N on Hwy 25 22 mi; L on Miles-Creston Rd, go 7 mi; R at Hawk Cr. sign, go 1.2 mi.GPS: 47.81466,-118.32428Birds: American Dippers, Bald Eagles, Peregrine Falcons, American Goldfinches, Red-necked Grebes, Mergensers (Common & Hooded), Bullock’s Orioles, Yellow Warblers, Canyon Wrens.

Tucked away in a small cove of Lake Roos-evelt is the relaxing Hawk Creek Falls. Listen to the soothing sound of the waterfall as you watch Falcons and Eagles float across the sky, several species of ducks cruise the creek and songbirds play amid the sage-brush, Cottonwoods, and basalt.

Log Flume Heritage Site4

Directions: Hwy 20 west from Kettle Falls, follow signs to site between mile markers 335 and 336. Park at kiosk.GPS: 48.58193,-118.22553Birds: American Dippers, Flycatchers (Hammond’s & Willow), Common Mergansers, Song Sparrows, Northern Rough-winged Swallows, Swainson’s Thrushes, Veeries, Vireos (Cassin’s & Warbling), Warblers (MacGillvray’s, Orange-crowned, & Yellow)

Sherman Creek: Slide Overlook5

Directions: From Hwy 20 at milepost 338.0, turn south onto unmarked Inchelium Hwy/Stevens County Rd 3. Drive 1.7 miles. Turn left onto unmarked dirt rd. Drive 0.1 mile to parking area on right.GPS: 48.5732,-118.154869Birds: Grey Catbirds, Red Crossbills, Bald Eagles, Dusky Flycatchers, Goldeneyes (Common & Barrow’s), American Goldfinches, Ruffed Grouse, Colliope Hummingbirds, Golden Crowned Kinglets, Common Mergansers, Nuthatches (Pygmy, Red- and White-breasted), Red-naped Sapsuckers, Pine Siskins, Chipping Sparrows, Western Tanagers, Hairy Woodpeckers

A one mile walk past the gate at the parking area will bring you to a 180-degree view of the lake and the site of a quarter-mile wide landslide that is now brimming with life.

Sherman Creek: East Gateway6

Directions: From Hwy 20 at milepost 339.9, turn east into national scenic byway kiosk parking.GPS: 48.60176,-118.14063Birds: Grey Catbirds, Red Crossbills, Bald Eagles, Dusky Flycatchers, Goldeneyes (Common & Barrow’s), American Goldfinches, Ruffed Grouse, Colliope Hummingbirds, Golden Crowned Kinglets, Common Mergansers, Nuthatches (Pygmy, Red- and White-breasted), Red-naped Sapsuckers, Pine Siskins, Chipping Sparrows, Western Tanagers, Hairy Woodpeckers

Red-naped Sapsucker


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Photo © Lucia Sanchez

GOLFING

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“Columbus went around the

world in 1492. That isn’t

a lot of strokes when you

consider the course.”- Le e Tr e v i n o

Photo by DesignSyndicatePotholes G

olf Course

GOLFING

What is every golfer’s worst night-mare? (Other than the obvious choices of a nasty slice, double bo-

geys and an infestation of groundhogs.) Well, in this writer’s opinion that fear can be summed up in two words - - water hazard. What is the biggest water hazard of them all? Simple - rain. While it does rain in Eastern Washing-ton, it doesn’t rain often. There are more sunny days on this side of the Cascades than over on the Seattle side. For example, the Moses Lake area enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine a year, with an aver-age annual precipitation total of around 7 inches, and a decent amount of that comes October through March when it’ll be a tad too chilly for some golfers. During the months of April through September the av-erage is less than half an inch each month. Don’t think that the arid conditions mean

the fairways and greens are anything BUT green. You’ll still find well watered fairways covered with nice, full grass. In this chapter you will find listings for the area’s golf courses, most are public while a few are semi-private or private. (For membership information, please contact the individual courses.) Included in the listings are web and street addresses (plus GPS coordinates), phone numbers, operat-ing season information, course amenities, and course stats like par, total distance, slope rating, and course rating. Several courses listed here offer camp-ing/RV hookups: Sage Hills, Potholes, Oasis Park and Vic Meyers. These courses make for a great getaway that combines camp-ing and golfing in one single location. We’d advise you to refrain from setting up your tent on the first tee however. It won’t get you an earlier tee time and it almost cer-tainly will get you kicked off the course. You wouldn’t want that would you? If you need some new equipment, rental gear, or golf apparel, many of these courses have a pro shop on site ready to satisfy your needs. Check with the course for daily hours and rates. So, the next time you feel the urge to hit the links for a round of golf, head out to Eastern Washington where the sun is shin-ing and the courses are groundhog free.

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G O L F I N G

Othello Golf Club1

9-Hole – Public – Built in 19652269 W. Mockingbird Ln. • Othello, WA 99344Phone: 509.488.2376 GPS: 46.79636,-119.21110

Season: March-November Longest Tee: 35par – 3066yds – 123slope – 37.0ratingAmenities: Driving Range, Clubhouse, Restaurant, Lounge, Banquet Room

Sage Hills Golf Club2

18-Hole – Public – Built in 196510400 Sage Hills Rd. SE • Warden, WA 98857Toll Free: 888.628.3066www: http://www.sagehills.comGPS: 46.92699,-119.13434

Season: Year round (weather permitting) Longest Tee: 71par – 6591yds – 122slope – 71.4ratingAmenities: Picnic Areas, Recreation Hall, Restaurant, Lounge, RV Park/Camping (see page 12)

Located on Highway 17 between Moses Lake and Othello, Sage Hills is an oasis of lush green fairways amidst the sand and sagebrush of the Columbia Basin. This course has four sets of tees that are sure to challenge all golfers, no matter your skill level. Be sure to check their website for an in-depth look at each hole.

Potholes Golf Course3

9-Hole • Public • Opened in 19947037 Highway 262 SE • Othello, WA 99344Phone: 509.346.9491www: http://www.potholesgolfresort.comGPS: 46.96942,-119.34296

Season: Early Spring – Winter (usually around Nov 1) Longest Tee: 33par – 2400ydsAmenities: Pro Shop, Restaurant, Sports Bar, Camping

Moses Lake Golf Club4

18-Hole • Private • Built in 19561373 Rd. F .2 NE • Moses Lake, WA 98837Phone: 509.765.5049www: http://www.moseslakegolfclub.comGPS: 47.10707,-119.35667

Season: Year round (weather permitting) Longest Tee: 71par – 6436yds – 111slope – 69.5ratingAmenities: Clubhouse, Pro Shop, Practice Facilities, Restaurant

The Links at Moses Pointe5

18-Hole • Public • Built in 1997-994524 Westshore Drive • Moses Lake, WA 98837Phone: 509. 764.2275 Toll Free: 866.764.2275www: http://www.mosespointe.comemail: [email protected]: 47.15361,-119.35708

Season: Year round (weather permitting) Black: 72par – 7549yds – 130slope – 75.6ratingBlue: 72par – 6965yds – 126slope – 73.0ratingCopper: 72par – 6720yds – 124slope – 72.1ratingAmenities: Club & Cart & Pull Cart Rental, Golf Shop, Clubhouse, Practice Facility, Restaurant

You might not find a nicer, more exquisite golf course in all of Washington, let alone the Coulee Corridor. The Links at Moses Pointe rests high above the western shore of Moses Lake in desert conditions that offer 300 plus days of sunshine. It is truly a golfer’s dream! After your round enjoy lunch or dinner at the course steakhouse, known for steaks, seafood, pastas, burg-ers and more. Why not stop by and play a round to see for yourself why Golf Digest gives Moses Pointe a four-star rating!

Photo by Ryan Weaver

Looking across the Moses Pointe course

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Oasis Park Par 36

9-Hole • Public • Built in 19752541 Basin St. SW • Ephrata, WA 98823Toll Free: 877.754.5102www: http://www.oasisrvandgolfresort.comGPS: 47.28488,-119.57790

Season: Year round (weather permitting) Longest Tee: 27par – 930ydsAmenities: Club & Pull Cart Rentals, Putting Green, Chipping Area, Food & Drinks, Mini Golf, RV/Camping

Lakeview Golf & Country Club7

18-Hole • Private • Built in 195019547 Golf Club Rd. • Soap Lake, WA 98851Phone: 509.246.0336 GPS: 47.37633,-119.50241

Season: Year round (weather permitting) Longest Tee: 71par – 6638yds – 114slope – 70.9ratingAmenities: Driving Range

Vic Meyer’s Golf Course8

9-Hole • Public • Built in 194934288 Park Lane Rd. NE • Coulee City, WA 99115Phone: 509.632.5738www: http://www.sunlakesparkresort.comGPS: 47.59291,-119.39186

Season: 3/01 to 10/15 Champ: 35par – 3093yds – 0slope – 35.5ratingForward: 35par – 2614yds – 0slope – 35.2ratingMiddle: 35par – 2867yds – 0slope – 34.9ratingAmenities: Club & Cart Rentals, Mini Golf, Camping/RV

Banks Lake Golf Club9

18-Hole • Public • Built in 1985/200019849 Ludolph Rd. NE • Electric City, WA 99123Phone: 509.633.0163www: http://bankslakegolfclub. comGPS: 47.91784,-119.06356

Season: Year round (weather permitting) Longest Tee: 72par – 6127yds – 115slope – 69.3ratingAmenities: Club & Cart Rentals, Driving Range, Putting Green, Restaurant, Café/Bar, Banquet Room

Picturesque 15th hole at Banks Lake Golf Club

Photo by Banks Lake Golf Club

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G O L F I N G

Big Bend Golf & Country Club1

9-Hole • Semi Private • Built in 1963899 NW Cole St. • Wilbur, WA 99185Phone: 509.647.5664 GPS: 47.76613,-118.72004

Season: Year round (weather permitting)Forward: 37par – 2875yds – 115slope – 36.3ratingMiddle: 36par – 2985yds – 107slope – 33.7ratingAmenities: Club & Cart Rentals, Driving Range

Dominion Meadows Golf Course2

18-Hole • Public • 1945/20021862 E. Hawthorne Ave. • Colville, WA 99114Phone: 509.684.2625 Toll Free: 866.886.5508www: http://www.colvillegolf.comGPS: 48.53658,-117.87791

Season: 3/1 to 10/31 Longest Tee: 72par – 6743yds – 125slope – 72.3ratingAmenities: Club & Cart Rentals, Driving Range

Dominion Meadows offers golfers of all skill levels a fun and challenging game. The course was built in 1945 as a 9-hole course and was expanded to 18 in 2002. Be pre-pared for beautiful scenery and panoramic views of the surrounding natural setting.

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2011 Eastern Washington Tales of Adventure Travel Guide