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OUTSIDE WALLA WALLA

OUTSIDE WALLA WALLA

Lyons Ferry State Park

Palouse River via Lyons Ferry State Park (Photo Credit: Gwen Dildine)

Based on the name it shouldn’t surprise you that there was once a ferry that operated the crossing of the Snake River, and, naturally, it was operated by the Lyons family. What might shock you is the fact that the ferry operated from 1860 all the way through 1968 when the bridge was constructed. Lyons Ferry State Park commemorates many historical features of the area in addition to offering loads of outdoor fun.

Overview

WHAT TO DO

Hiking

While there aren’t formal trails, there is plenty of space to wander around and enjoy the interpretive signs as well as follow the shoreline for roughly a mile. The Palouse River meets the Snake River at Lyons Ferry State Park. Enjoy learning about the area’s past–Native American significance, the Lewis & Clark adventure, not to mention geologic beginnings. Palouse Falls is also just down the road.

Fishing

A plethora of species are ready for the catchin’ in the area, including, steelhead, sturgeon, trout, walleye, catfish, and smallmouth and largemouth bass. Fishing regulations are highly specific and based on location and species. Please always consult the latest information available from the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife.

Paddleboarding/ Kayaking

Lyons Ferry State Park is a great place to paddle really anything for the day. The Palouse River pools up prior to the confluence with the Snake River and water enthusiasts can explore the shoreline, venture up the Palouse River depending on flow, or paddle over to the Starbuck/ Lyons Ferry Marina KOA for an icecream bar.

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WHAT TO EXPECT

There was once a campground across the highway that made enjoying the park for multiple days much easier. If camping is a must on the agenda, consider the Starbuck/ Lyons...

WHEN TO GO

The park opens April 1 and closes September 30. The boat launch attracts many users but most are on the water, so wandering the park has never felt all that crowded. The summer typically brings out the most outdoor enthusiasts,...

HOW TO GET THERE

From Walla Walla, take HWY 125 north for three miles and turn left on Harvey Shaw Road. Harvey Shaw Road becomes Lyons Ferry Road after crossing HWY 124. Once you reach HWY 261, take a left. Cross Lyons Ferry Bridge,...

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