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The Coulees of the Quincy Wildlife Refuge harbor several lakes fed by various irrigation activities and a few springs to cap things off. While many of the lakes have subterranean outlets, Stan Coffin and H Lakes feed into this modest stream which produces two waterfalls. The upper of the two is a small but notable 20 foot segmented fall, crashing over a small cliff of columnar basalt into a bouldery, brushy mess below. Dainty Judith Pond, located just above the falls, is a great spot to watch waterfowl, but like the bottom of the falls, thick sagebrush prevents easy access up close. Parking at the trailhead requires a Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife parking permit, which can be purchased anywhere fishing licenses are sold.
- Upper Ancient Lakes Falls is the Unofficial name of this waterfall.
Ancient Lake Falls is located in the Quincy Wildlife Refuge between the towns of Quincy and George, north of Interstate 90. From I-90 in George, exit northbound onto Highway 281 and proceed for just over 5 miles to Road 5 NW and turn left. Follow Road 5 NW for 3 miles and turn left sharply on an unmarked gravel road. The trailhead is found another 1/3 of a mile down the hill at a gate. From the parking area, follow the gated road right at the first junction, then follow a path right across the stream in a marshy area and left along a path afterward. Soon the trail reaches the top of Upper Ancient Lake Falls and descends steeply to the base, about 3/4 of a mile from the parking area.
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