Sightseeing
Ancient wonders and engineering marvels await.
Sun Lakes sits at the heart of the Channeled Scablands, a landscape carved by the most powerful floods in Earth's history. Over 400 trillion gallons of water tore through the Pacific Northwest during the Ice Age, creating the dramatic basalt cliffs, hidden canyons, and ancient waterfalls you see today.
Between 15,000 and 13,000 years ago, a massive ice dam holding back Glacial Lake Missoula repeatedly broke, releasing walls of water up to 2,000 feet high. The evidence is everywhere: towering basalt columns, dry waterfalls, ripple marks the size of hills, and enormous boulders carried hundreds of miles by the floodwaters.
Today, you can explore this dramatic landscape from scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and lakeside viewpoints. Most attractions are an easy drive from the resort, making Sun Lakes the perfect base camp for discovery.
Popular Attractions
Dry Falls
4 milesStanding 400 feet tall and over three miles wide, this ancient waterfall once exceeded Niagara Falls by tenfold.
Note: As of Jan 1 2026, State Parks has closed the Dry Falls Visitor Center until further notice for renovations.
Lake Lenore Caves
7 milesAncient Native American shelters featuring petroglyphs carved into stone. Accessible hiking trails lead to caves with stunning views.
Grand Coulee Dam
30 milesAn engineering marvel measuring 550 feet tall and one mile long. Don't miss the free Laser Light Show (late May through late September).
More to Explore
Coulee Corridor Scenic Byway
One of Washington's seven National Scenic Byways. Drive from Othello all the way to Omak through majestic views of the Channeled Scablands. On the way you'll encounter Heritage sites, wildlife refuges, and of course Grand Coulee Dam.
Learn More →Blue Lake Rhino
A rare fossilized rhinoceros mold preserved in pillow basalt. One of the most unusual geological finds of the Columbia Plateau. It's a moderate-to-challenging hike, but you can also access it by boat. Check with Coulee Lodge for details.
Learn More →