Palouse River and Falls are evidence of the immense volcanic, geologic, and glacial history of Washington and the grander Columbia River basin. We spent the day visiting Palouse State Falls and then Zodiac cruising through miles of the Palouse River, a tributary to the Snake. We could see the evidence and learned of the catastrophic floods from the latest ice age (over 10,000 years ago) that carved through the basaltic bedrock. Following the paths of least resistance, these floodwaters carved through rock, leaving behind canyons, coulees, and mesas, along with a wonderful river habitat perfect for wildlife. We spent the sunny day exploring and set sail to our next destination just as the sun began to set.