Getting back on track and Hiking the Palouse...

It's about that time in the program that I start wondering, "what have I done?"  I'm missing my lobster ravioli in a pink cream sauce and roasted duck.  On the bright side, I'm still on track to reach my goal and can really feel my body responding positively to my efforts.  So, as a little diversion, I will share with you my day hike and hopefully inspire you to continue on and take a little adventure yourself.

The Palouse is a region in southeastern Washington, which extends over to parts of Idaho and some say into northeast Oregon.  The area is known for fertile soil and extensive farming, but there is also a hidden treasure. The region was formed millions of years ago, not by local glaciers, but rather from silt that was blown in from the glacial plains to the south and west of the region.  The result is deep deposits of fertile soil and rolling hills - level land is a rare sight.

Making its way through the rolling hills is the Palouse River, which eventually feeds into the Snake River as it finds its way to the Columbia.  About 40 miles south of the city of Ritzville, Washington is Palouse Falls State  Park.  A comfortable drive from Spokane, Walla Walla or the Tri-Cities area of Washington, it makes for a perfect day trip.

As you arrive at the park you immediately see what everyone has come to experience - Palouse Falls.  With nearly a 200 foot drop through the basalt it makes for a spectacular view.

Palouse Falls - as seen from the main area of the park.

There are plenty of trails to wonder on the plateau above the falls, but most visitors never see the upper falls which are just as beautiful.  If you walk a little to the north of the main falls, you can view the water and amazing carved canyon.  For a real experience, and great hike, make your way down past the railroad tracks along the trail that takes you right to the waters edge; a great place for a picnic.  Very few people venture down, so you will most likely have the place to yourself.

Upper Falls - (Above) taken from the path along the railroad tracks and looking down the canyon towards the main falls;  (Below) taken at the water's edge of the upper falls.

From the upper falls you can follow a trail, more like a goat path, along the canyon wall.  Much of the path is safe, but as you approach the "haystacks" you are quickly approaching the main falls, so you have to watch your step.  Not that you want to find out, but there have actually been people who have intentionally gone over the falls in kayaks - and survived! 

Canyon Trail - (Above) taken from the path along the canyon wall and looking towards the upper falls;  (Below) taken from the canyon wall path looking back to the main falls and haystacks.

Whether you stay up top or venture down to the water's edge, Palouse Falls State Park is an incredible site and a great place to spend the day hiking.  It's a great way to get out, have fun, and forget the fact that you are getting a great cardio workout.  Just be sure to bring plenty of water and a little trail mix.