Horse Lake Reserve
Heaven on Earth in the Wenatchee Foothills
Looking for a fun hike with the kids near Wenatchee? The Horse Lake Reserve is minutes from the city, but worlds away from noise and bustle. Rolling ridge lines, sweeping vistas, and fields of spring wildflowers greet you at the Horse Lake Reserve.
The Hikes
From the trailhead at the Horse Lake Reserve, hikers and bikers can head out on the main Sage Hills Trail or the Old Ranch Road. Either departure offers looped options that return to the parking lot.
I recommend starting on the Old Ranch Road. Within a half mile you arrive at a historic barn and groupings of trees that once surrounded a homestead. Continue on the Ranch Road until you reach the intersection with the Glacier View Trail. This trail climbs moderately over two miles before reconnecting with the Ranch Road.
Historic Barn near the Old Ranch Road
Take the Ranch Road back to the trailhead, or for a slightly longer route, try the Homestead Trail. Either way, you will be greeted by views of Eagle Rock, the Columbia River, and the Enchantments. (See more hiking options on All Trails.)
Birch Mountain and Eagle Rock across the Wenatchee River Valley
The History
Two families farmed the lands that comprise the Horse Lake reserve for generations. The Burts family purchased a portion of the land in 1936 and began to raise dry land wheat as well as chickens, cattle, and pigs. They farmed until 2001.
Views to the east of the Columbia River and East Wenatchee
Next door, the Wallace family farmed the Horse Lake Ranch in a similar fashion. But eventually in the late 1990’s, wheat farming was no longer economically viable.
The Heros
During this time of economic challenge, John Wallace, along with Lee and Everett Burts, worked in partnership with the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust, the Icicle Fund, and the Wenatchee Sportsmen’s Association to imagine a new use for the land.
Basalt Markers at the Trailhead
All parties could see the benefit of a reserve that would save a piece of local heritage and create a space for both the public and wildlife to enjoy the land.
Finally, in 2006, after several years of hard work, imagination, and cooperation, the 1,500 acre Horse Lake Reserve was created. Thank you to all parties for this far-reaching vision and work.
