One of the best things about living in Washington is having the ability to find so many hidden gems. From our mountain trails to our coastal scenery, you never know what’s waiting for you when you get outside and explore. The Lake Lenore Caves should be added to every Washingtonian’s bucket list— but the majority of locals have never even heard of them. This adventure will impress your inner daredevil.
The Lenore Lake Caves are located near Coulee City in a rugged and often overlooked part of Washington.
Christine Conley / alltrails.com No matter what part of the state you’re coming from, you should allow for an entire day of exploration. Once you reach the area, you’ll understand how much there is to see.
With 12,000 years of history, this landscape has plenty to offer.
Amber Davis / alltrails.com It looks the way it does because of the Great Missoula flood, when water pulled chunks of basalt from the walls of the coulee.
The hike to reach the caves is less than a mile, and it’s a great trek for people of all skill levels.
Rick Jordan II / alltrails.com The path is pretty easy. From the parking lot, you’ll head up a staircase carved into the rock, where you can choose between going left (north) or right (south). The most developed trails are to your right, so head that way if you have children with you or you’re an inexperienced hiker.
You’ll pass seven shallow caves along the way before arriving at the largest one.
Nichole Padovano / alltrails.com Here, you’ll find a shaded spot to stop and have a picnic lunch while you take in the views.
After the Missoula flood waters retreated and the caves were created, early Native Americans used them as shelters.
Perla Janeth / alltrails.com This area is still considered sacred ground to Native Americans, and it’s a fantastic place to relax. You might even spot some wildlife, like reptiles and birds of prey.
Check out the Lenore Lake Caves the next time you’re in the area. Better yet, make it the focus of your next spring or summer day trip.
Valerie Mitchem / alltrails.com This place is pretty incredible, and it’s worth the drive.
Have you ever seen these ancient caves?
Christine Conley / alltrails.com
No matter what part of the state you’re coming from, you should allow for an entire day of exploration. Once you reach the area, you’ll understand how much there is to see.
Amber Davis / alltrails.com
It looks the way it does because of the Great Missoula flood, when water pulled chunks of basalt from the walls of the coulee.
Rick Jordan II / alltrails.com
The path is pretty easy. From the parking lot, you’ll head up a staircase carved into the rock, where you can choose between going left (north) or right (south). The most developed trails are to your right, so head that way if you have children with you or you’re an inexperienced hiker.
Nichole Padovano / alltrails.com
Here, you’ll find a shaded spot to stop and have a picnic lunch while you take in the views.
Perla Janeth / alltrails.com
This area is still considered sacred ground to Native Americans, and it’s a fantastic place to relax. You might even spot some wildlife, like reptiles and birds of prey.
Valerie Mitchem / alltrails.com
This place is pretty incredible, and it’s worth the drive.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Lake Lenore Caves, Lake Lenore Caves Trail, Soap Lake, WA 98851, USA
