Regional Waterfalls
The rivers and streams within the region are well known for unique and varied waterfalls. Some of these cascades are easily accessible, others are hidden treasures.
Only a few of the falls have been mentioned here. It is relatively safe to say
"if you find a river or stream, you'll find cascading water and a nearby waterfall."
Douglas Falls
Just north of of Colville is Douglas Falls Park. Home to one of the prettiest waterfalls in the region, the Department of Natural Resources developed a campground, picnic area and baseball diamond. Mill Creek flows over a rock face in many rivulets and streams. There is easy access to the fall and a nice overlook providing some incredible photographic opportunities.
Crystal Falls
20 miles east of Colville, on State Highway 20 'Crystal Falls' thunders over the rocks of the Little Pend Orielle River. A brief stop and easy walk here will be rewarded with a spectacular view from a fenced area located a safe distance away. Even long time residents have passed this place and not stopped to really enjoy the falls. Crystal Falls also changes dramatically with the seasons. High water makes this fall a thundering torrent. Autumn brings falls colors and a slower pace, while the falls are cloaked in ice during the winter months.
Trilbey Falls
Below Crystal Falls, also on the Little Pend Orielle River is . The river plunges through a small cleft in the rock only a few feet wide. The Fall can be heard, and the spray seen, far from the actual fall. The downside is that this impressive fall requires a treacherous and steep hike to see them.
Meyers Falls
Meyers Falls is also near the town of Kettle Falls. This was once the site of the first grist mill in western U.S. and only the upper portion is visible easily, but with a little planning and permission from private landowners it is possible to get a really good view of these falls.
The 'Kettle Falls'
We had to mention the Kettle Falls in this section despite the fact that they are now only a memory. Before the waters of Lake Roosevelt silenced it, the massive Kettle Falls were just north of the Bridge crossing the Columbia River / Lake Roosevelt on State Highway 20 just before the Republic turnoff. (see Regional History)