10 Ways to Enjoy the Great Outdoors on the Palouse

Robert Hubner

Kurt Dahmen and David Schott both know a thing or two about recreational opportunities in the Palouse region. After all, Dahmen is the parks and facilities director for the City of Pullman, Washington, while Schott is Moscow, Idaho’s parks and facilities manager. 

“Pullman and Moscow are two university towns that have a lot to offer, but in 30 minutes, a person can be on a river boating, fishing, camping, mountain biking or on a spectacular hike on Steptoe Butte,” Dahmen says.

Ready for an Amazing Outdoor Lifestyle?

Schott says he and his family enjoy the area for the outdoor lifestyle and all the kids’ activities. In Moscow, that could be learning the fundamentals of baseball and softball through a youth sports program or taking swimming lessons at Reaney Park Pool, Pullman’s favorite outdoor pool.

Both cities invest a lot of money and time into their parks. In fiscal year 2022-23, Pullman invested over $1.5 million in its parks system, Dahmen says. Projects included a new picnic shelter, new playground equipment and near completion of Mary’s Park, Pullman’s first ADA-accessible playground. 

Linking the two cities is the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail, an old railroad corridor that’s now a 7-mile paved pathway for biking, walking and running.

Here are five great ways to enjoy the outdoor activities in Pullman (keep reading for great ideas in Moscow):

Stroll Along the Downtown Riverwalk

After a peaceful walk across pedestrian bridges and by beautiful waterfalls, this meandering Riverwalk puts you near shops, restaurants and cultural attractions. The Downtown Riverwalk is part of a city trail system that encompasses almost 8 miles of routes, and it’s connected to the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail, which leads to Moscow. 

Try Disc Golf at Sunnyside Park

Pickleball courts (have you tried this fun, growing sport yet?), free yoga classes for seniors, new playground equipment and an 18-hole disc golf course are features of this diverse park. 

Take a Class at the Pullman Recreation Center

When the weather gets iffy, Pullman has a first-rate indoor option for year-round recreation enthusiasts. “The rec center opened in 2020 and has become the hub for many of our programs,” Dahmen says. “We felt this was one type of facility the Pullman community was lacking. Now, we’re able to offer a preschool, senior center, year-round walking track and many other programs all under one roof.” 

Go Golfing at Palouse Ridge

Incorporating the beautiful rolling hills of the Palouse, this challenging and fun 18-hole championship golf course also offers lessons and a restaurant. 

Play Fetch with Fido at Pooch Park

With lots of grass, trees, shady relaxation areas and separate sections for large and small dogs, this off-leash park is full of fun for furry friends and their people. Access to the park is on a paid membership basis. 

Looking for some fun ideas on the Idaho side of the Palouse? Check out these fun outdoor activities in Moscow:

Hike and Spot Wildlife at Virgil Phillips Farm Park

Primitive trails through open fields, forests and wetlands provide the chance to spot native Palouse species, from deer, elk, moose and black bears to many birds and amphibians. 

Enjoy the Artistry of Berman Creekside Park

A walk along Paradise Creek reveals sculptures and four themed gardens in this small park, which is also the perfect place to have a picnic with family and friends. 

Join a Pickup Game at East City Park

Basketball, volleyball, horseshoes and a playground make this one of Moscow’s most active recreation areas with plenty of shade trees and places to relax. 

Camp and Relax at Rambler RV Park

Along with gorgeous scenery and quick access to local attractions, this new and affordable RV park features power (20/30/50 amp), water, sewage, garbage collection and fast Wi-Fi. 

Learn Pickleball at Ghormley Park

Schott recommends this all-ages park for pickleball, softball, picnicking, the playground and horseshoe pits. A perfect place for family fun day. 

“Moscow parks are robust because of strong community support and a dedicated staff,” Schott says. “People are drawn to a community [where] they can live, work and play.”