Towell Falls
Whitman County, Washington
Your visit at a glance
- Waterfall height
- Not recorded
- Location
- Whitman County, Washington
- Access status
- BLM ranch-road trail along Rock Creek to the falls
- The walk
- 6.5 miles round trip (WTA)
- Ground & access
- Old ranch road with a climb and descent past basalt cliffs, then a short cross-country walk to the creek.
Towell Falls is where Rock Creek splits around a large island, with a separate drop in each channel, in the Channeled Scablands south of Sprague on Bureau of Land Management land. From the trailhead kiosk and picnic shelter at Escure Ranch, follow the old ranch road south beside Rock Creek and go through a pedestrian gate at about 0.4 mile (close it behind you). After about a mile and a half the trail climbs away from the creek, passes high basalt cliffs and descends again toward the falls. A side track to the left reaches the creek near the lower falls but has a poor view. WTA suggests staying on the main trail until you are level with the upper falls, then walking cross country to the creek. Return the same way. The trail is shared with horse riders and mountain bikers, and cattle may graze along it.
Plan your visit
Escure Ranch trailhead in the BLM Rock Creek Management Area, south along the old ranch road beside Rock Creek to Towell Falls
WTA gives 6.5 miles round trip with 400 feet of elevation gain for the Escure Ranch to Towell Falls hike.
Old ranch road with a climb and descent past basalt cliffs, then a short cross-country walk to the creek.
Where to start
Escure Ranch parking area at the end of the BLM access road off Jordan Knott Road, with room for about 20 cars, a toilet and primitive campsites. WTA describes the access road as very rough and potholed, passable in a basic car with care when it is not too muddy.
Timing & water
The falls are largest in late winter and early spring. The area is open for hunting in the fall; wear bright colors. Towell Falls Road is sometimes open to vehicles seasonally; check with the BLM.
Before you go
WTA lists no parking pass or entry fee.
Visitor informationVisit sources
More waterfalls nearby
Within 40 straight-line miles. Road and trail distances will differ.
