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Explore Palouse Falls

LaCrosse, Washington

4.4/5
based on 20 reviews

Description

Added by Mitch Pittman

Explore Washington's State Waterfall with a towering 198 foot drop. The falls are a short walk from the parking area.

Back in early 2014, a group of fifth-graders from nearby Washtucna, Washington were able to convince the governor to name Palouse Falls the official State Waterfall.

These miniature John Muirs were on to something.

Palouse Falls is every bit as accessible as it is spectacular. From the parking lot, walk about 50 feet to an overlook with interpretive signs and sturdy fences to guard you from the massive cliffs.

For a great photo op, hike a couple hundred yards on social trails cut into the grass for awesome views of the falls and valley extending to the South. There are NO FENCES here. Be very careful and don't go too close to the edge of the cliffs.

The five minute walk to Upper Palouse Falls, which really looks more like rapids, is worth the effort after driving all the way out here.

This is a great spot for a family trip. There are bathrooms right at the parking lot, in addition to picnic tables and a shelter. There are even 11 campsites for those who can handle the coyotes howling all night long. The sites are first come first served. You can get more information by calling the state park (509) 646-9218.

It's a long drive from the Puget Sound area, but well worth a weekend trip to admire the falls and take in the unique landscape in this part of the state.

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Features

Chillin
Camping
Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Groups
River
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildlife
ADA Accessible

Explore Palouse Falls Reviews

Beautiful waterfall that is wonderful to photograph and has a plethora of easy to access viewpoints. While the park will likely be full of people whenever you visit, you can always follow some of the scattered 'trails' that not only lead around the falls, but down to the base of the waterfall as well. This path gets a little narrow at times, but near the base there is a rope set up to help people get up and down (not that I think it is encouraged by the park to go to the base of the falls anyway), but overall the area is easy to explore and find paths that lead every which way, just be safe if you chose to descend into the canyon.

The hike to Palouse Falls was quick and easy while affording superb views of the falls from the cliffs as well as the stream that turns into the falls.

If you're wanting to hang around for a while you'll need a Discover Pass and a $10 fee for the day.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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