In contrast to the high mountains and evergreen forests in Western Washington, the rest of the state has a relatively dry climate with large areas of rich farmland and rolling hills. Earlier this spring we headed east on a road trip to enjoy the sunshine and scenery of the Palouse.
Photographs by Forest Eckley, Alisa Furoyama, and Jared Linzmeier
Directions to Palouse Falls from Seattle: Head East on I-90 for 135 miles. Take exit 137 WA-26E for 82 miles. At this point you should be about 30 minutes out and will start seeing signs for Palouse Falls. Turn right on to WA-260, left on to WA-261, then left on to Palouse Falls Road. There are 10 campsites at the parking lot which are available on a first come, first serve basis and plenty of primitive camping in the park. If neither of these work for you, there is a large KOA campground 20 minutes away. Do your grocery shopping before you leave, as the towns are few and far between in this part of the state. If you plan on doing wine tastings, it is best to call ahead of your trip as most of the tasting rooms have limited hours and are closed on Sundays. Enjoy!
Favorite Local Campground: Palouse Falls
Favorite Waitsburg Bar and Restaurant: Jimgerman Bar
Favorite Walla Walla Bar and Restaurant: Brasserie Four
Favorite Walla Walla Wine Tasting Room: Amavi