About Palouse Falls

Palouse Falls is Washington's official State Waterfall — and the designation is well earned. The falls drop 198 feet through a perfectly circular basalt amphitheater carved by catastrophic Ice Age floods in the scablands of Franklin County, eastern Washington. The surrounding channeled scablands landscape — twisted basalt pillars, vast canyon walls, and the snake river basin below — is unlike any other waterfall setting in the Pacific Northwest.

The falls are accessible via a very short walk from the parking area, making the Palouse experience one of the most dramatic waterfall-per-effort ratios anywhere. The geological context is extraordinary — the Missoula Floods that carved this landscape were among the largest flood events in the history of the earth, and the basalt amphitheater shows their power. A sunrise visit with the golden light hitting the canyon walls is absolutely unforgettable.

Trail Highlights

• 198-foot plunge through a circular basalt amphitheater carved by Ice Age floods
• Washington's official State Waterfall
• One of the most dramatic geological settings for any waterfall in North America
• Very short walk from the parking area — exceptional effort-to-spectacle ratio
• Sunrise light on the basalt canyon walls is extraordinary

Trail Description

From the Palouse Falls State Park parking area, follow the short paved path to the canyon rim overlook. The 198-foot drop into the turquoise pool below is visible immediately.

Follow the rim trail to additional viewpoints along the canyon edge. A longer trail descends partway toward the river below. Return to the parking area via the rim trail. Sunrise and sunset visits are highly recommended.

Tips & What to Bring

• Sunrise is the best time — golden light fills the basalt amphitheater dramatically
• Stay well back from the canyon edge — there are no guardrails in places
• The falls are in eastern Washington — combine with a Walla Walla wine region visit
• Spring (April-June) offers the highest water volume from snowmelt
• A Washington State Discover Pass is required for parking — available at the park entrance

Getting There

From Washtucna, WA, take WA-261 South approximately 16 miles. Turn left on Palouse Falls Road and follow to Palouse Falls State Park. GPS: 46.6630, -118.2250.