Palouse Falls in Washington State is best known alongside the iconic colorful Palouse wheat fields, but few expect to find such a massive waterfall hidden in this remote landscape. Located in southeastern Washington, Palouse Falls is a dramatic waterfall and canyon formed over millions of years by the Palouse River. The falls drop about 60 meters (198 feet), plunging over basalt cliffs into a deep canyon below, showcasing raw and powerful natural force. Unlike the lush green forests of western Washington, this area reveals a classic dry grassland environment. Rolling golden hills, vast open skies, and the deep canyon create a stark yet beautiful contrast. At sunrise and sunset, sunlight hits the canyon walls and waterfall mist, producing rich layers of color—making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers. As the official state waterfall of Washington, Palouse Falls is a must-visit if you love dramatic natural scenery but want to avoid crowded tourist hotspots. It may not be as world-famous as the Grand Canyon, but it offers equally breathtaking canyon views. Formed by ancient flood erosion, the basalt canyon paired with a nearly 60-meter waterfall creates a raw, rugged beauty. Standing at the viewpoint, the expansive canyon and roaring waterfall feel truly awe-inspiring. Even better, this is a free state park. If you have a Washington Discover Pass, parking is also free—making it incredibly accessible compared to many national parks. Despite fewer visitors, the scenery rivals some of the most famous destinations. Driving from Seattle takes about 3.5 hours. If your final destination is the Palouse wheat fields, this makes a perfect first stop. **Hiking** Although AllTrails lists only two main routes, much of the park is accessible by informal trails: Trails connecting the two main viewpoints A one-way ~1 mile trail from the viewpoint to the top of the waterfall A loop trail that follows the river upstream to the northwest and circles back to the parking area A short but steep and challenging trail along the ridge east from the top of the falls, leading down toward the pool below
Palouse Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Palouse Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Palouse Falls famous?
Palouse Falls is Washington's official state waterfall and one of the last active waterfalls from the catastrophic Ice Age Missoula Floods that carved the Columbia River Gorge 13,000–15,000 years ago. The 198-foot plunge over basalt cliffs into a dramatic horseshoe-shaped canyon makes it one of the most photographed natural landmarks in Eastern Washington.
Can you swim at Palouse Falls?
No. Swimming is not permitted at Palouse Falls due to dangerous currents and hazardous conditions. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Palouse Falls?
Dogs allowed on-leash in the park and on trails. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Palouse Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Washington State Discover Pass required ($10 day-use or $30 annual). Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Palouse Falls?
Parking is available at the upper viewpoint area near the falls with paved parking lot. The lot can accommodate several dozen vehicles. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Palouse Falls?
Roadside viewing from upper viewpoint. Optional trail to lower viewpoint is about 0.4 miles / 0.6 km one-way with steep sections. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Palouse Falls hike difficulty
Easy for upper viewpoint (roadside access). Moderate for lower viewpoint trail due to steep, rocky terrain and elevation change. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Palouse Falls?
Spring (April–June) for peak water flow from snowmelt, making the 198-foot falls most dramatic. Fall offers pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Palouse Falls
From the parking area, the upper viewpoint platform is immediately accessible with paved walkways offering direct views of the falls. For the lower viewpoint, follow the trail that descends steeply down rocky terrain toward the canyon floor – use caution as the path is unimproved and can be slippery. Stay on designated trails and behind safety barriers.
Palouse Falls official website
Attractions near Palouse Falls
- •Lyons Ferry State Park – camping and boat launch on the Snake River, 16 miles away
- •Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail – scenic rail-trail for hiking and biking
- •Marmes Rock Shelter – archaeological site near confluence of Snake and Palouse Rivers
- •Steptoe Butte State Park – 360-degree views of the Palouse region, 90 minutes north
Watch the falls
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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