USA Palouse Falls
One of the most amazing waterfall locations in Washington State. Easily accessible by car. Minimal walking is required. Limited camping is available on a first-come-served basis. KOA Campground is only 8 miles away, reservation is recommended.
The waterfall itself is a 198 ft plunge and its thunder can be heard some distance away.
Note that this is a very popular location, on a summer weekend, there can be a very long line for parking, occasionally up to two hours long. Early morning will improve your chances of driving right in.
Discover Pass is required to park at this State Park and can be obtained online or at many outdoor retailers. It costs 10$ for one day and you should have cash if you want to pay it at the desk, especially if you are here apart from the main season.
This place is around 4 hours away from bigger cities like Seattle or Portland.
The waterfall itself is a 198 ft plunge and its thunder can be heard some distance away.
Note that this is a very popular location, on a summer weekend, there can be a very long line for parking, occasionally up to two hours long. Early morning will improve your chances of driving right in.
Discover Pass is required to park at this State Park and can be obtained online or at many outdoor retailers. It costs 10$ for one day and you should have cash if you want to pay it at the desk, especially if you are here apart from the main season.
This place is around 4 hours away from bigger cities like Seattle or Portland.
Photography Tips
This location is amazing for sunrise, sunset, and astro photography. A wide lens is a must, ND Grad is recommended unless you plan to blend exposures.
If you like the green-colored mountains, you need to get here during spring. Afterward, the green parts turn yellow, caused by the drought.
If you like the green-colored mountains, you need to get here during spring. Afterward, the green parts turn yellow, caused by the drought.
Travel Information
From Ellensburg, head east on I-90 toward I-82/Spokane/Yakima and continue on this road for approximately 28 miles. Take exit 137 to merge onto WA-26 east toward Othello/Pullman. Continue another 83 miles until you reach the small town of Washtucna, often referred to as the “Gateway to Palouse Falls.” Turn right onto Main Street and drive through Washtucna. If you blink you might miss it, so keep your eyes open; There will be a gas station on your left with restrooms if you need to make a pit stop.
Continue southwest on Main Street for 6.4 miles, entering Franklin County. Then turn left onto WA-261 S. You will begin to see signs here for Palouse Falls State Park. Follow the highway as it winds through rolling hills for another 8.5 miles. Turn left onto Palouse Falls Road. The road is marked with a sign indicating “Palouse Falls State Park.” Drive 2.4 miles and enter the park following a dirt and gravel road to the end to find the parking area. The lot has room for two dozen or more cars.
Continue southwest on Main Street for 6.4 miles, entering Franklin County. Then turn left onto WA-261 S. You will begin to see signs here for Palouse Falls State Park. Follow the highway as it winds through rolling hills for another 8.5 miles. Turn left onto Palouse Falls Road. The road is marked with a sign indicating “Palouse Falls State Park.” Drive 2.4 miles and enter the park following a dirt and gravel road to the end to find the parking area. The lot has room for two dozen or more cars.
Spot Type
Outdoor
Crowd Factor
Lots of people
Best Timing
All timings are equally good
Sunrise & Sunset
07:34 - 16:11
| current local time: 04:31
Photo Themes
Canyon
River
Waterfall
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