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The Ultimate Eastern Washington Waterfall Loop

Eastern Washington might be known for dry hills and wide-open skies, but it’s also hiding beautiful waterfalls (some of which you’ve probably never heard of).

And this eastern Washington waterfall loop will take you to the best waterfalls in the region, so you can finally tick them off your bucket list.

Some tumble through deep canyons, others splash down right in the middle of a city, and a few are so off-the-radar you’ll need a kayak to get there.

This loop takes you to the coolest, most surprising waterfalls east of the Cascades, with short hikes, secret spots, and wild views you definitely weren’t expecting.

1. Frenchman Coulee Waterfall (Frenchman Falls)

Frenchman Coulee Waterfall is a seasonal waterfall that has a main drop of approximately 100 feet down a basalt cliff, surrounded by giant rock columns that look like something from another planet.

You’ll find it just off Vantage Highway near the tiny town of Vantage—roughly a half mile from the climbing area known as The Feathers.

The standard hike to the waterfall is an easy 4-mile round-trip hike, but there’s also a shortcut, which is just a 1-mile round-trip hike.

This spot is also super popular with rock climbers, so don’t be surprised if you see people scaling the crazy-cool cliffs while you snap waterfall pics.

2. Palouse Falls

Now, if you’re ready for something way more dramatic, say hello to Palouse Falls.

This beast drops a jaw-dropping 200 feet into a deep canyon and many people consider it to be one of the best natural wonders in Washington.

It’s located in Palouse Falls State Park, about 18 miles southeast of Washtucna and it’s the official state waterfall of Washington.

You don’t even have to hike to see it because the main viewpoint is just steps from the parking lot, with epic canyon views that look straight-up prehistoric.

3. Towell Falls

Lowell Simonsen / Flickr

Towell Falls is tucked away in the Channeled Scablands near Escure Ranch in the Rock Creek Management Area, about 12 miles south of Sprague, Washington.

The 6.5-mile round-trip trail follows an old ranch road through open fields, wetlands, and rolling hills alongside Rock Creek.

At the end, a short descent brings you to Towell Falls—a gentle, two-tiered waterfall with a 12-foot lower cascade and a 20-foot upper plunge spilling over layered basalt.

Keep your eyes peeled because this place is a hotspot for wildlife, and it’s not uncommon to spot porcupines or cows.

4. Hog Canyon Falls

Next up is Hog Canyon Falls, another cascading waterfall that you need to check out.

It’s hidden near the town of Sprague, inside the Fishtrap Recreation Area (also known as the Hog Canyon Lake area), and it only really flows in early spring or after heavy rain, so timing is everything.

The short 3.2-mile roundtrip hike takes you through grasslands, forests, and rocky canyon areas that feel super remote, and when the water’s running, the falls plunge about 50 to 60 feet over a series of basalt steps into a mossy little basin.

Please note that while the trails leading to Hog Canyon Falls are on public land within the Fishtrap Recreation Area, the immediate vicinity of the falls—including the base—is on private property. However, you can still enjoy views of the falls from the publicly accessible trails.

5. Spokane Falls

And now for something totally different, Spokane Falls, which crashes right through the heart of downtown Spokane.

This powerhouse is actually two waterfalls—Upper Falls and Lower Falls—with a visible combined drop of approximately 120 to 130 feet, and you can see them up close without ever leaving the city.

Hop on the Spokane Falls SkyRide for a bird’s-eye view, or stroll the paved Riverfront Park trails for waterfall action with skyline views and snack stops nearby.

It’s loud, wild, and full of energy, especially in spring when the Spokane River is raging from snowmelt.

6. Peewee Falls

If you’re up for a little adventure, Peewee Falls is your next stop, and trust me, it’s worth the effort.

This 233-foot waterfall pours straight into the Pend Oreille River near the Canadian border, just outside the tiny town of Metaline Falls.

There’s now a scenic overlook accessible by a short, ADA-compliant trail, but for an up-close experience, most people kayak or boat in from the Boundary Dam area, making this one of the most remote (and coolest) falls on the loop.

It’s peaceful, wild, and totally off-the-beaten-path, so it’s perfect if you’re craving a waterfall you don’t have to share.

7. Crystal Falls

J. Stephen Conn / Flickr

Crystal Falls is one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it gems that’s literally right off the road, but still totally magical.

Located along Highway 20, this 30-foot waterfall tumbles down a rocky cliff just steps from a small pullout.

No hike required.

Just park, walk a few feet, and boom, you’ll see the falls rushing into a shaded little canyon.

It’s a quick stop, but the photo ops are awesome, especially in spring when the water’s really flowing and everything’s bright green.

8. Hawk Creek Falls

Last but definitely not least, Hawk Creek Falls brings some serious wow with its rugged canyon setting and peaceful vibes.

You’ll find it inside Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, a short drive northeast of Creston, where Hawk Creek slices through basalt cliffs before spilling into a big natural pool.

There’s even a small campground nearby, so you can fall asleep to the sound of rushing water if you’re up for a night under the stars.

The falls are just a short walk away from the Hawk Creek Campground, and if you visit in late spring, the water’s usually strong enough to hear it before you see it.


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