Hauser Lake Conservation Area

Named for its proximity to Hauser Lake, this hike doesn't actually offer any lake access or views. Instead, it's a good place to stretch one's legs and perhaps see some wildlife. The Hauser Lake Conservation Area consists of 192-acres with a short trail loop that leads to Washington Department of Natural Resources land to the west. Stick to the conservation area for a short hike through a dense forest landscape, or extend the hike onto the adjacent Department of Natural Resources (DNR) logging roads for additional mileage. 

From the parking lot, take Doghair Alley past a small tree nursery (leased area; no public access) to connect to the Hauser Loop, and from there to the adjacent DNR property. The trail system is a work in progress, with the trail corridor cleared but no dirt work completed at this time. Expect rough terrain and poor footing through the Conservation Area.

Trail signage is limited to the Conservation Area, and there is not additional signage on the DNR parcel. Bring a trail map to stay oriented to the trail system, as the DNR property consists of many old logging roads. It's possible to link together the trails and old roads to create a stacked loop hike of roughly 5.7 miles, with additional mileage possible via out and back hikes on other logging roads that dead-end on the access road or at property boundaries. 

This hike does not offer expansive views, nor even a view of nearby Hauser Lake. It does have several rock outcroppings and an interesting forest consisting of a wide variety of conifers (Ponderosa pine, lodge pole pine, white pine, Douglas fir, hemlock, red cedar, and western larch), native shrubs, and lots of wildlife. One section was apparently a hay field at some point in the distant past, with rusting farm implements now surrounded by young pine trees.

Best times to visit include spring during peak wildflower blooms and fall when the western larch turn golden. In the winter, be sure to check the Spokane County Parks' trailhead web-cameras to make sure the parking lot is plowed before venturing out, and either microspikes or snowshoes may be necessary. The parking lot is accessible from 6am-10pm daily. No pass is required at the Spokane County Parks' parking lot, but a Discover Pass is required if accessing the property from any of the adjacent DNR parking areas.