Palouse Falls: How to Visit Washington's Official State Waterfall

Washington's Most Dramatic Waterfall

Palouse Falls plunges nearly 200 feet into a basalt canyon carved by ancient Ice Age floods. Located in southeastern Washington, it was designated the official state waterfall in 2014 — and once you see it, you'll understand why.

Getting There from Spokane

The drive from Spokane to Palouse Falls takes approximately 2 hours heading south through the rolling Palouse wheat fields. The route passes through small farming communities and some of the most photogenic agricultural landscapes in the country.

The final stretch to the park is on a remote two-lane road. Cell service is limited, so download your directions before you leave.

What to Expect at the Park

Palouse Falls State Park is compact but powerful. The main viewpoint is a short walk from the parking lot and offers a jaw-dropping view of the falls and canyon below.

For a closer look, a steep trail descends toward the base of the falls. This trail is unofficial and can be dangerous — stick to the fenced viewpoints if you're not an experienced hiker.

Best Time to Visit

The falls are most impressive in spring (April through June) when snowmelt swells the Palouse River. By late summer, the flow diminishes significantly.

For photography, golden hour and sunset create dramatic lighting against the basalt walls.

Road Trip Tips

This is a remote destination with no gas stations, restaurants, or stores nearby. Pack a cooler with lunch, bring extra water, and fill your gas tank before leaving Spokane.

A comfortable SUV from High River Rentals handles the long drive well and gives you space for a full day's worth of supplies.