An Easy Afternoon Drive on the Palouse Scenic Byway

You do not need a full vacation day to experience the rolling fields and small communities that make the Palouse distinctive. The Palouse Scenic Byway is a network of routes through southeastern Washington, and a shorter section can make an easy afternoon outing from Pullman.

The Full Byway and the Afternoon Version

State of Washington Tourism describes the complete Palouse Scenic Byway as approximately 208 miles with a recommended drive time of about four and a half hours. That makes the full route a substantial day trip once meals, photographs, and stops are added.

For a relaxed afternoon, choose one section instead of trying to complete the entire byway. Pullman works well as a starting point because U.S. 195, State Route 27, and other byway connections make it easy to adjust the distance to the time available.

A Simple Pullman to Colfax Outing

Begin in Pullman and travel north toward Colfax on U.S. 195. This section offers changing views of farmland, draws, and distant ridges. In Colfax, stop for a walk, a meal, or a quick look around downtown before deciding whether to continue west on State Route 26 for more open-country views or return to Pullman.

This plan is intentionally flexible. A direct out-and-back drive works for a shorter afternoon. Adding a byway spur or a longer stop in Colfax turns it into a half-day excursion.

Another Option: State Route 27 North

State Route 27 provides another scenic direction from Pullman, passing through communities such as Palouse and Garfield as the road continues north. This route can be adapted into a short drive with one destination or a longer outing with several community stops.

Instead of measuring success by mileage, pick one or two goals. You might want a quiet drive, photographs of seasonal field colors, a downtown stop, or time outdoors. Leaving room in the plan makes the trip more enjoyable.

What to Bring

• Water and a light snack
• A charged phone and offline directions
• Sunglasses and sun protection
• A light layer for changing weather
• A camera or binoculars
• A full fuel tank before exploring longer rural sections

Drive Thoughtfully

Many of the most photogenic views are surrounded by working farms and private property. Use established public pullouts, obey posted signs, and do not stop in travel lanes or enter fields for photographs. Expect farm equipment during planting and harvest seasons, and allow extra following distance.

Road construction, wildfire conditions, winter weather, and seasonal access can affect a route. Check current highway and destination information before leaving. If you plan to enter a state park or recreation site, confirm current hours, fees, and pass requirements with the managing agency.

Make It Part of a Palouse Weekend

A scenic drive pairs easily with time in Pullman, Colfax, Palouse, or Moscow. Visitors can combine an afternoon route with a local restaurant, campus walk, community event, or another guide from the PullmanMoscow.com blog.

Sources reviewed August 27, 2026: State of Washington Tourism, Palouse Scenic Byway and Palouse Scenic Byway day trips. Verify current road and destination conditions before traveling.