It’s Earth Day 4 22 24! Earth Day with a palindrome!

Here are some pictures of a day trip we took yesterday to see Palouse Falls. These gorgeous falls are located in southwestern Washington state. Plenty of people had the same idea, but it did not feel crowded. The remote roads were not busy, the parking lot had room, and it was easy to wander off by yourself.

It was slightly windy, but that kept it from feeling too hot. Because the sun was on full blaze. The 2-mile dirt road drive from the paved road was dusty and had sections of solid washboard, but other than that, perfect conditions.

I recommend a spring trip. We loved seeing the green hillsides (soon to be brown, dry, and filled with wildfire potential) and wildflowers as we drove.

How many marmots can you see? There is quite a colony! See below for the answer. They are quite unafraid of people, and apparently used to being given treats. If you go, watch the bottom of the fence (to keep you from falling off) to see little entrances they’ve dug to access the grass of the picnic areas and the people. We did not feed them, but a few approached to see if we reached out their way. When we didn’t, they toddled back under the fence to their edge of the cliffs.

We also enjoyed watching the swifts who flew all about the waterfall, grabbing bugs and chattering to each other.

Sadly, we were unable to take the trail down to the bottom of the waterfalls. Due to multiple tragic accidents, those trails are blocked off. That fall is a long way down!

What a beautiful way to celebrate the amazing earth our God made! I am in awe.

If you go, know that this is remote desert rattlesnake country. Several warnings are on display reminding people to be careful (and advising them that the nearest hospital is quite far). Be prepared for dry desert conditions and follow the rules to stay safe! This is a day use state park. Not too far to the east is Lyons Ferry State Park where you can access the river. There is also camping nearby.

Happy Earth Day!

Note: There are 4 marmots in the photo.