Top Things to Do in Eastern Washington

Eastern Washington is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most underrated travel destinations. Known for its rugged landscapes, scenic lakes, rolling farmland, and outdoor recreation, it’s a refreshing alternative to the busier western side of the state. Whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend retreat, an outdoor adventure, or a scenic road trip, there are countless things to do in Eastern Washington.

If you’re looking to explore the area, the small town of Sprague makes an excellent home base. Conveniently located near many of the region’s top attractions, Sprague provides easy access to hiking trails, wildlife refuges, waterfalls, and lakeside recreation. This brief travel guide highlights some of the best things to do in Eastern Washington, starting with destinations located near Sprague and the surrounding countryside.

Discover the Natural Beauty of Eastern Washington

One of the biggest draws of Eastern Washington is its open landscapes and peaceful outdoor spaces. The area surrounding Sprague is a great destination for nature lovers and travelers looking to escape crowded tourist areas.

The region’s basalt cliffs, rolling hills, lakes, and wildlife habitats create opportunities for hiking, photography, fishing, and wildlife viewing throughout the year. Visitors can spend their days exploring nearby parks and trails before relaxing under the wide-open Eastern Washington sky in the evening.

Explore Fishtrap Recreation Area

Among the top attractions is the Fishtrap Recreation Area. Located just a short drive from town, this scenic destination is known for basalt rock formations, peaceful lakes, and miles of hiking trails.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy trails that wind through the unique channeled scablands landscape, while fishermen often visit the area for some quiet time on the water. Wildlife viewing is also popular, with deer, birds, and other native species frequently spotted throughout the recreation area.

For photographers and travelers seeking a quieter outdoor experience, Fishtrap Recreation Area offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the region. 

Visit Palouse Falls State Park

No Eastern Washington weekend getaway would be complete without a trip to Palouse Falls State Park. Widely considered one of the best things to do in the state, the park is home to the official waterfall of Washington.

Palouse Falls plunges nearly 200 feet into a deep canyon carved by ancient Ice Age floods, creating one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. Visitors can enjoy scenic overlooks, short hiking paths, and excellent photography opportunities throughout the park.

The drive to Palouse Falls also showcases the beauty of Eastern Washington’s rolling farmland and rugged terrain. It’s a memorable road trip destination for couples, families, and outdoor adventurers.

Experience Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge

Located near Cheney and within easy driving distance of Sprague, Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge is another must-see destination.

The refuge features wetlands, forests, and natural landscapes that provide habitat for a variety of birds and wildlife species. It’s a great place for scenic drives, walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and seasonal wildflower displays throughout the year.

Turnbull is especially popular with photographers and families looking for relaxing things to do outdoors. The peaceful environment offers a welcome contrast to busier tourist destinations and highlights the natural diversity found throughout Eastern Washington.

Take a Day Trip to Spokane

For travelers wanting a mix of outdoor recreation and city attractions, Spokane makes an excellent day trip from Sprague. As the largest city in Eastern Washington, Spokane offers restaurants, breweries, shopping, museums, and entertainment while still maintaining easy access to the outdoors.

Riverfront Park is one of Spokane’s most popular destinations and features scenic walking paths along the Spokane River. You can explore the nearby Bowl and Pitcher area inside Riverside State Park, known for its hiking trails, suspension bridge, and striking river views.

Spokane’s combination of urban amenities and outdoor recreation makes it a great place to visit if you’re looking to enjoy both adventure and relaxation during your trip.

Explore the Columbia Plateau Trail

Searching for more active things to do in Eastern Washington? Consider exploring the Columbia Plateau Trail. This scenic rail-trail route stretches through beautiful open landscapes and offers opportunities for walking, biking, wildlife viewing, and photography.

The trail showcases a ruggedly beautiful landscape while offering a quieter alternative to more crowded hiking destinations. Whether you choose a short section of the trail or spend an entire afternoon exploring the area, the Columbia Plateau Trail is a great addition to any vacation.

Plan Your Eastern Washington Getaway

From waterfalls and wildlife refuges to scenic trails and peaceful lakes, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do in Eastern Washington. The region’s slower pace, beautiful landscapes, and outdoor recreation make it perfect for weekend travelers, families, couples, and anyone visiting the area.

For those looking to stay close to the area’s top attractions, Fishtrap Lake Resort offers the perfect place to relax and unwind. Conveniently located near Sprague and many of the region’s best outdoor destinations, our resort provides easy access to hiking, fishing, boating, and scenic day trips throughout Eastern Washington.

Book your stay today and experience the natural beauty, recreation, and relaxation that make the Pacific Northwest such a memorable destination.