If You're NearbyNatureScenic drivesPhotography

The Palouse

Washington and Idaho

Rolling wheat hills that glow green and gold in late spring and summer, a favorite of landscape photographers.

Photo: Lynn Suckow from Walla Walla, WA, USA · CC BY-SA 2.0

This farmland of soft hills in eastern Washington and the Idaho line looks almost painted. Steptoe Butte has the classic view from above. Nearby Palouse Falls drops 198 feet into a canyon carved by ice-age floods.

Best Time
May–August
Time Needed
1–2 days
Cost Level
$$$$
Open
Check before you go; hours vary by season
Getting There
About an hour by car south of Spokane.

What to See

1 of 2 are free
Free1 hour

Steptoe Butte

The view from the top, best at dawn.

1 hour

Palouse Falls

A surprising canyon waterfall.

Know Before You Go

  • The farms are private. Stay on the roads.

Where to Stay

Stay in Colfax or Moscow, Idaho.

Where to Eat

Our picks are on the way.

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Last checked 2026-11-02. Part of the Pacific Northwest list.