Palouse River

The park is open from dawn until dusk. While this part of the world is quite exposed and can heat up quickly, the park enjoys many mature trees that provide ample shade. Upriver, the cliff walls close in and shrink the landscape, amplifying the stark desert landscape.

Along the river, tall grasses and trees line the shoreline providing a cool respite for all creatures using its banks. Fish dart like torpedoes under the kayak. Pack the binoculars in the dry bag.

The first few miles of the Palouse are typically easy to paddle, but make sure to consider the return trip in your time and effort calculations. As the river approaches Palouse Falls a few miles prior to the plunge pool, a series of rock bars deter further exploration. A short drive down the road from the state park makes viewing the falls significantly easier and safer.

Amenities
There are restrooms and showers available at the state park.

Wildlife Awareness
We are all so fortunate to recreate in the Blue Mountains and Walla Walla Valley. So many opportunities exist to play outside, whether in a national forest, wilderness area, or on a Wild and Scenic River. With these opportunities comes great responsibility to appreciate that we are mere visitors and should all take pride in being good stewards of the wild.

Many animals call these protected places home, including moose, elk, bear, cougar, bobcat, and snakes to name a few. Take precautions to respect their home and understand the appropriate response should an encounter occur.

Additionally, many plant species thrive in the Blue Mountains, so staying on trail is always good practice.

Carry First Aid supplies to better respond to accidents or encounters, and always let others know where the day’s adventure is taking you.

Field Notes
Disclaimer: While the Outside Walla Walla team has enjoyed all the adventures listed on this site, we cannot provide real-time conditions & maintenance reports. Extreme weather can change access overnight. Volunteer groups might lose capacity to manage trail systems. We do our best to report that information and update our site accordingly, but please read our Disclaimer (footer) and proceed with any adventure as your comfort level allows.