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Lenore Lake Caves Hike

Soap Lake, Washington

3.8/5
based on 3 reviews

Description

Added by Rose Freeman

Hike to 7 ancient caves high above Lake Lenore. Perfect adventure for any age explorer! Distance: 1.5 miles, round trip.

Have you ever explored the ancient caves of the Washington Palouse? Just off of highway 17 near Coulee City the Lenore Lake Caves are a perfect day hike experience. These caves were formed when the area was flooded 12,000 years ago by melting ice. You have to see them for yourself!

The trail immediately climbs up above the lake. You will soon be rewarded with views of the valley and lake below from the first cave. Continue following the trail along the ridge as you discover all 7 caves. Some are tall while others are narrow with spaces you have to crawl into. Bring along a stove to heat up some hot drinks and enjoy cave life for a day!

The best time to explore these caves is spring to early summer because of rattlesnakes and other wildlife in the area hiding in the cool rocks in the heat of summer. Happy hiking!

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Groups
Romantic
Scenic
Wildlife

Lenore Lake Caves Hike Reviews

The trail had great views, and I enjoyed being inside the caves. They are shallow though, and the trail isn’t easy to follow. In some spots it’s dangerous.

The caves were not huge, but overall the area is absolutely stunning. Would definitely recommend going!

Don't expect a deep dark cave, these are shallow caves with wide openings. These pictures are representative of what you see from the back of the cave looking out. I'll take issue with several points of the description: Should be rated Easy/Beginner, just a bit of uneven ground and minor elevation gain. Boots are not needed; flip flops are not recommended, but teens in our group pulled it off. Allow 90 minutes, bring a snack if you like. In the summer it is quite hot, although the shade of the caves helps a little. And this is not in or near the Palouse.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Umatilla Rock Trail

Steamboat Rock

Deep Water Solo at Banks Lake

Ancient Lakes via Judith Pool

Chelan Butte

Boat-in Camping at Lake Chelan