
Palouse Scenic Byway Washington
Experience the raw power of Palouse Falls and the surreal beauty of Washington's rolling hills on this unforgettable scenic byway.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds

Palouse Scenic Byway Washington
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the raw power of Palouse Falls and the surreal beauty of Washington's rolling hills on this unforgettable scenic byway.
"Palouse Falls is where the Earth remembers violence—and turns it into beauty.
"
🚗 Gravel Road Ahead!
The last 2 miles to Palouse Falls are unpaved. Your vehicle will get dusty!
🎫 Discover Pass Needed
Purchase a Discover Pass for entry to Palouse Falls State Park. Credit card only onsite.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Palouse Falls
Palouse Falls State Park
Witness a breathtaking 198-foot waterfall plunging into a rugged basalt canyon. A true PNW gem.

Palouse Scenic Byway Drive
Eastern Washington
Cruise through endless, undulating golden hills that create a surreal, otherworldly landscape.

Steptoe Butte State Park
Near Pullman, WA
Ascend this massive quartzite butte for 360-degree panoramic views of the entire Palouse region.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Remote Adventure
Discover Pass & Best Viewing Times
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Gravel Road Ahead!
The last 2 miles to Palouse Falls are unpaved. Your vehicle will get dusty!
🎫 Discover Pass Needed
Purchase a Discover Pass for entry to Palouse Falls State Park. Credit card only onsite.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular light on the falls and hills.
🚶♀️ Steep Trails
Some paths to viewpoints are steep; walking sticks are advised for stability.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Gravel Road Ahead!
The last 2 miles to Palouse Falls are unpaved. Your vehicle will get dusty!
🎫 Discover Pass Needed
Purchase a Discover Pass for entry to Palouse Falls State Park. Credit card only onsite.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular light on the falls and hills.
🚶♀️ Steep Trails
Some paths to viewpoints are steep; walking sticks are advised for stability.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable in this remote region.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Palouse Falls State Park for its dramatic beauty and unique geological features, calling it a remote treasure. The Palouse Scenic Byway offers breathtaking, otherworldly landscapes. While the journey can be rugged with gravel roads and limited services, the stunning views and sense of wildness make it a highly rewarding experience for those seeking natural wonders.
"This is a remote treasure in Eastern Washington. I late Sept the Falls didn't have the full flow of water but the rocks and the birds made it special. Seeing a Peregrine Falcon in the wid currents was cool! There are bathrooms, picnic tables and some short hiking trails. Small parking lot and 2 miles of gravel road getting in. Still worth it. Lyons Ferry Park nearby is a good side trip."
cindy skrivanek
"Scenic falls are just a short walk from the parking lot. There are restrooms there as well. You will need a discovery pass or pay there. The last 2 miles of the road into the park are unpaved (gravel) so know that your vehicle will get dusty."
Neil Hamilton
"The drive in is on a gravel groomed road of about 2 miles. The park does require the Discover Pass which can be purchased at the park if you do not already have one. Credit card payments only.
The parking is limited to about 20 spaces. There is a restroom building and port a potties available.
The paved walking path leads to an open picnic area with one covered table but mostly shaded tables to enjoy the warm breeze.
The walking paths to the different view points is steep in some spots, walking sticks advised.
Don't forget to walk to the right of the restrooms for some more spectacular views of the area."
Cyndi Markle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palouse Falls State Park is located in southeastern Washington. The final 2 miles of the road leading to the park are unpaved gravel, so be prepared for dust.
Download offline maps as cell service is limited.The Palouse Scenic Byway itself is a series of highways, generally well-maintained. However, the access road to Palouse Falls State Park is gravel.
Many visitors enjoy driving the byway in its entirety, taking in the rolling hills.Driving the Palouse Scenic Byway is the most popular way to see the rolling hills.
Consider starting in Pullman and heading north on Highway 27, then west on Highway 272.The closest towns offering lodging and amenities include Pullman, LaCrosse, and Washtucna. Pullman is a central basecamp for exploring the region.
Palouse Falls State Park is open year-round, but conditions can be challenging in winter with potential snow and ice. The gravel road may be more difficult to navigate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Discover Pass is required for entry into Palouse Falls State Park. You can purchase one onsite with credit card only, or in advance.
A daily Discover Pass typically costs $10.
Annual passes are also available if you plan to visit multiple Washington State Parks.Yes, you can purchase a Discover Pass at Palouse Falls State Park, but only with credit card payment.
Palouse Falls State Park is generally open from dawn to dusk. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Washington State Parks website for any specific closures or updates.
The Palouse Scenic Byway is a designated route, not a park with an entrance fee. However, individual state parks along the route, like Palouse Falls and Steptoe Butte, require a Discover Pass.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the stunning Palouse Falls, with an ADA-accessible overlook. There are also short hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping available.
Yes, there are several viewpoints offering spectacular perspectives of the falls and the canyon. The main overlook is easily accessible, and walking to the right of the restrooms reveals more views.
Absolutely! The dramatic landscape, the powerful waterfall, and the rolling hills make it a photographer's paradise, especially during golden hour.
While the main overlook is paved and accessible, some of the trails to other viewpoints can be steep and exposed. Walking sticks are recommended for added stability.
Yes, you can camp at Palouse Falls State Park, with sites offering incredible views of the canyon and waterfall. It's a unique experience to wake up to the sound of the falls.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are limited directly at the park. The nearest towns like Pullman and LaCrosse offer restaurants and cafes.
Yes, there are picnic tables available, including some covered ones, perfect for enjoying a meal with a view.
Expect classic American diner fare, local cafes, and farm-to-table options in towns like Pullman.
Given the remote location and limited dining options, it's highly recommended to pack your own snacks and drinks, especially if you plan to spend several hours exploring.
Typically, there are no food trucks or vendors operating within Palouse Falls State Park. It's best to come prepared with your own provisions.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for capturing the falls and the rolling hills.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the landscape and the falls. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or wildlife.
The main overlook provides a classic view. Exploring the trails to the right of the restrooms can offer unique perspectives.
Be mindful of safety near the canyon edge.Drone usage is typically restricted in Washington State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check park regulations before flying.
The byway is perfect for capturing sweeping vistas of the rolling hills, often with farm fields. Look for unique patterns and textures in the landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a longer adventure, consider driving the Palouse Scenic Byway. Kids often marvel at the vast, rolling hills that seem to stretch on forever. Stopping at Steptoe Butte State Park provides a sense of scale and offers incredible panoramic views that can spark curiosity about geography. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited in this rural area.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
The Palouse Scenic Byway itself provides endless opportunities to capture the iconic rolling hills. Look for unique patterns in the fields, experiment with different angles, and consider visiting in the fall when the golden hues are at their peak. Wildlife, such as peregrine falcons, can also be spotted at Palouse Falls, adding another layer of interest for nature observers.
🚗 Road Trippers & Adventurers
Combine the scenic drive with a visit to Palouse Falls State Park for a truly memorable experience. Be prepared for the gravel road leading to the falls, which adds to the sense of adventure. Consider exploring nearby towns like Pullman for local charm and amenities. This region is perfect for those seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations and a chance to connect with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Palouse Falls
Visitors can experience the falls from an ADA-accessible overlook, making it a destination for everyone. The surrounding landscape is equally dramatic, with jagged cliffs and a sense of ancient wildness. The park also offers camping, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in this unique environment and wake up to the sound of the thundering water.
Pro Tip: Visit during golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for the most breathtaking light that illuminates the canyon walls and the cascading water.
Driving the Palouse Scenic Byway
As you drive, you'll pass through charming small towns, each with its own character and history. Pull over at designated viewpoints to soak in the panoramic vistas and capture stunning photographs. The byway is a fantastic way to appreciate the vastness and beauty of the Pacific Northwest's agricultural heartland, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Key Stops: Don't miss Steptoe Butte State Park for unparalleled 360-degree views of the entire region. The byway is also a great way to connect to other attractions like Palouse Falls State Park.
Understanding the Palouse Landscape
This fertile land has made the Palouse a prime agricultural area, with wheat, barley, and lentils being major crops. The visual effect of these crops growing on the undulating terrain is what gives the Palouse its distinctive beauty, especially when viewed from high vantage points like Steptoe Butte. The landscape can appear almost otherworldly, prompting comparisons to scenes from fairy tales or alien planets.
Geological Significance: The deep canyons, like the one at Palouse Falls, are remnants of these powerful prehistoric floods, showcasing the immense power of water and ice over millennia.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit