Saturday Sightseeing

Driving through the desert of eastern Washington, one wouldn't expect to find so much water flowing in the middle of nowhere. But there it is!

Palouse Falls ... one of the last remaining sites providing evidence of the great Missoula Ice Age Floods that created the landscape of this unique area I call home.

I have visited the falls many times and each is a treat to behold. Depending on the time of year you are there, the water flows at a different rate. Dropping 200 feet into a turbulent pool, it is such a spectacular sight.

The Washington Parks Department has taken great care of the surrounding area. There are picnic tables, public restrooms, a campsite, hiking trails and interpretive signs.

And wildlife!

I took this picture the last time I was at the falls.

Palouse Falls is located about 60 miles from my home. It makes for a lovely weekend drive.

Saturday Sightseeing

MarDon Resort

I thought this was a good follow-up to last week's post about Grand Coulee Dam. When the water flows through the intricate canal system to irrigate the many crops in our area, it has to end up somewhere.
Well, the result is a wonderful recreation area at MarDon Resort. If you look at the picture, you'll see the water, which is a huge lake called Potholes Reservoir. It's where the water is stored for the lower end of the irrigation system.
It offers some of the best fishing in the world. In fact, I can still remember seeing pictures of the Potholes in my dad's fishing magazines when I was a kid.
Before the dam was built, this lake didn't exist. It was a large canyon where sheep, cattle and horses grazed. Today, it's tons and tons of water that helps feed the world.
The resort offers cabins, RV parking, a restaurant, gift shop, fishing supplies and boat rentals. Nearby is a great golf course with sports bar and lounge. And there is also a great state park with camping, swimming, playground for the kids, picnic area and an interpretive trail offering a look at some of the plant life in the area.


All around the lake you can find opportunities for watching wildlife. My husband and I have taken the canoe and paddled around the shore looking at a variety of birds. I've also taken quite a few photos of birds by just driving around the area.
Mar Don Resort is a great place to visit. It is located about 20 minutes from where I live.

Saturday Sightseeing

Welcome to Saturday Sightseeing.

Each week, I'm going to take you on a journey around the area where I live - the Pacific Northwest!

These tidbits will include a variety of places. Some are very common and well-known, like this week's entry.

Other posts will be what's often referred to as "off the beaten path."

Grand Coulee Dam

The economy of the area where I live (Columbia Basin of Washington state) is dependent on this massive concrete structure, which was a Public Works Adminstation project. Construction began in the 1930s, but it wasn't until 1951 water was used for irrigation. That original purpose had to wait for World War II to end, as electric demands took precedence.

Laser Light Show

During the summer months, one of the largest laser light shows graces the spillway. Beginning as soon as it is dark enough, the show tells the history and story of the area. It is free and there are many vantage points to get a clear view.
Grand Coulee Dam is about 100 miles north of my home.