Washington, Idaho, and Oregon, all in the Pacific Northwest, combine for over five thousand waterfalls. The weather and terrain in the Pacific Northwest have contributed to forming some of the most incredible waterfalls in the world. Each season offers new and exciting scenery and adventures.
Washington – Palouse Falls
Located in Palouse Falls State Park, for more than 13,000 years these waters have surged. The Palouse Falls were created from the floods of the Ice Age. Named by the Palouse Indians, these falls are also referred to as Aput Aput or falling water.
Visitors can view the falls from three different locations. An overlook can be accessed using a stairway near the parking lot. From an interpretive walkway, you can follow a trail that provides the history of the falls. Continuing along the path, you will reach the Fryxell Overlook. From this vantage point, you will be rewarded with incredible views of the 200’ high Palouse Falls and the river canyon.
Idaho – Sheep Falls
With over three hundred waterfalls, Idaho offers an incredible selection of cascading water to experience. Located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Sheep Falls is known for its incredible sunrises and sunsets. Visiting Sheep Falls is the perfect way to begin or end your day exploring Idaho’s natural beauty.
For experienced kayakers and swimmers, Sheep Falls provides options for testing your skills in the water. Strong swimmers and kayakers can find locations along the waterways to venture in. However, the breath-taking beauty and roaring sounds of Sheep Falls are worth the trip with or without adding a trip on and in the water.
Oregon – Hug Point Falls
A unique location in Oregon is Hug Point Falls, which combines a beach, explorable caves, and a waterfall. Time your visit to Hug Point Falls according to the tide charts. Only accessible when the tide is low, the waterfall is a hidden gem. Along with the gentle beauty of these waters, visitors will get to combine a beach adventure. A bit of history is woven into this site, which allows you to walk on a shelf that stagecoaches traversed years ago. The area is named for the shelf that literally hugs the edge of the cliff permitting passage.
All three states in the Pacific Northwest offer a diverse topography to experience. Start in Washington with over three thousand waterfalls and visit Palouse Falls.
