Backpacking Building Blocks Student-Only Backpack - Ancient Lake

H Lake Public Access parking area
(https://goo.gl/maps/kZdV3hbsbCCsvCLD9)

Saturday April 12th at 9am

Rain or shine

This is a beginner’s backpacking trip, giving students the opportunity to try out their gear and apply the skills they've learned in the B3 course.  We’ll be exploring the Ancient Lakes area in eastern Washington, hiking a clockwise loop along the tops of basalt cliffs, the bases of basalt cliffs, and the edges of several lakes.  All while enjoying views of the Columbia River.  We'll hike at a moderate pace (1.5-2 mph), and take breaks for snacks, views, and pictures.

We’ll meet at the H Lake Public Access parking area and hike clockwise approximately 6.5 miles / 520' gain to the shore of the Columbia River.  There, we'll set up camp, collect/treat water, cook dinner, and discuss lessons learned from the day.  The next morning, we'll have breakfast, pack up, and continue our loop clockwise another 6 miles / 1000' gain to return to the trailhead.

Route: CalTopo

Recent trip reports: WTA

Weather forecast: NWS

This route includes a short, steep ascent of a talus slope on day 2; scrambling using hands for stability will be required.  All participants must be confident ascending such slopes while carrying a fully-loaded backpack.

While we will be passing many lakes and streams on both days, it is irrigation runoff that is unsafe to drink, even after filtering.  While at camp, we can safely use water from the Columbia River (after filtering that water of course).  Participants must therefore arrive at the trailhead on Saturday with sufficient water to hike 6+ miles to camp, and must depart camp on Sunday with sufficient water to hike 6+ miles back to the trailhead.