The Palouse boasts stunning scenic vistas and delightful small towns.

A road trip along the Palouse Scenic Byway is one of the best ways to explore Washington’s Palouse Region. Located in the southeastern part of the state, the Palouse is renowned for its picturesque rolling hills and farmland.

Highway 195 runs south from Spokane to Pullman and beyond, providing opportunities to discover charming towns and captivating sights along the way.

<h3>How to Road Trip the Palouse Scenic Byway</h3>

There’s no single correct way to drive the Palouse Scenic Byway. The route features Highway 195 as well as other local highways like Highway 27 and Highway 26, offering various starting points. You might choose to head south from Spokane, begin with a visit to the stunning Palouse Falls State Park to the west, or base yourself in Pullman for a more leisurely exploration of the area’s attractions over several days.

<h3>Palouse Scenic Byway Attractions and Towns</h3>

<b>1. Palouse Falls State Park</b>

If you’ve never visited Palouse Falls, prepare to be amazed. Located off Highway 261, this 200-foot-tall waterfall cascades dramatically over the distinctive brown rock ledges of Eastern Washington. It’s particularly stunning in spring and early summer during the runoff season. Palouse Falls was designated as the state waterfall in 2014, following a successful petition by elementary school students from Washtucna School.

The 94-acre park features a picnic area, shelter, and designated walking paths, all of which are ADA accessible. The park is open from 6:30 a.m. to dusk. A Discover Pass costs $30 for an annual pass or $10 for a one-day pass.

Tip: If you're traveling to the Palouse Scenic Byway from Seattle or Western Washington, make Palouse Falls your first stop. If you're coming from Spokane or the east, the falls are well worth the extra drive, which takes about 1.5 hours from Colfax.

<b>2. Pullman</b>

Pullman, home to Washington State University, offers plenty to do. Visit WSU’s Bear Center to see bears in their enclosure from April to October at Grimes Way and Terre View Drive (indoor tours are not available). Open from 8 AM–5 PM daily.

For a treat, stop by <b>Ferdinand’s Ice Cream Shoppe</b> in the Food Quality Building. Enjoy flavors like Cougar Tracks, mint chip, and strawberry, available on most weekdays. It costs about $10–20 price per person.

For dinner, The <b>Foundry Kitchen</b> offers hearty sandwiches and burgers, with both an outdoor heated patio and cozy indoor booths. Another great spot is <b>The Black Cypress</b>, acclaimed for outstanding hospitality by the James Beard Foundation. Around $20–30 price per person. It opens from 11 AM–8 PM; Sunday is closed.

Don’t miss the annual National <b>Lentil Festival in summer</b>, celebrating the Palouse’s significant lentil production. Enjoy parades, music, and activities with the festival’s mascot, Tast E. Lentil. This two-day event is fun for all ages.

Hey Lykkers! Ready for an adventure? Join us as we hit the road along the Palouse Scenic Byway, where stunning vistas and charming small towns await! From the breathtaking Palouse Falls to the vibrant town of Pullman, there’s so much to explore!