If ever there were a classic photographer pilgrimage destination in the northwestern US, the Palouse is it.  The undulating multi-colored hills make for one of the most picturesque landscapes imaginable and a perpetual landscape photographer favorite.  Particularly in the spring, the hills light up like magic at sunrise and sunset, drawing shutterbugs from around the world.  One of the best and most classic views is from Steptoe Butte State Park near Colfax, Washington, an easy hour’s drive if you’re coming from the Idaho side in Moscow.  As you drive round and round the narrow looping road that leads up to the summit of the butte, you start to see the incredible panoramic views of the farmland below stretched out like patchwork…and you might even get some stellar wildflowers on the butte itself.  Bring a sturdy tripod, though – it is windy up there!  Take a look at some of my favorites from my expedition over Memorial Day this year: