Horn School Rest Area US 195 Multidirectional: Historic Stop Currently Closed on US 195
Horn School Rest Area sits at mile marker 60 on US 195, about 22 miles north of Colfax between Spokane and the Palouse. Built in 1967 as Washington’s first rest area, this facility currently shows as closed on WSDOT’s website following tree removal work. When operational, you’ll find restrooms, drinking water, picnic tables, and free coffee – but right now there’s no timeline for reopening.
Horn School Rest Area Us 195 Multidirectional Fast Facts
| Feature |
Detail |
| Location |
Whitman County, Washington |
| Highway |
US 195, Multidirectional access |
| Mile Marker |
MP 60 |
| Status |
Closed Verified September 28, 2025 |
| Key Features |
Historic first rest area, coffee program when open |
| Limitations |
Currently closed, no reopening date |
| GPS Coordinates |
47.1824606, -117.3769086 |
What Works Here
When open, this rest area fills a critical gap on the 70-mile stretch between Spokane and Pullman where no other rest facilities exist. The restrooms function well, drinking water works reliably, and picnic tables provide space for breaks. Coffee program participation makes it one of the better-equipped stops when operational.
Built on the site of the old Horn School, the facility handles around 250,000 visitors annually during normal operations. The location works well for travelers moving between the Spokane area and Palouse farming region.
What Doesn’t Work
Closure creates a major problem since no alternative rest area exists between Spokane and Colfax. Tree removal work finished in March 2025, but the facility remains closed without explanation or reopening timeline.
Planning Your Stop
Don’t count on this rest area until WSDOT confirms reopening. Check their official website for current status before traveling US 195. With no alternative rest stops, plan bathroom breaks in Spokane before heading south or push through to Colfax for services.
Rosalia has basic gas and convenience stores about 10 miles south, but limited restroom access for the public.
Traveler Tips
• Verify status on WSDOT’s rest area webpage before traveling this route
• Use facilities in Spokane or plan to drive straight through to Colfax when closed
• Rosalia offers emergency gas and limited services 10 miles south
• When open, this becomes your only rest option between major cities
• RV travelers particularly affected by closure due to limited commercial alternatives
• Consider alternate routes if rest stops are essential for your travel plans
SEO Meta Description
Horn School Rest Area on US 195 MP 60 currently closed after tree removal. Washington’s first rest area from 1967, no reopening timeline announced.
