A North Central Idaho Adventure
Lewiston, known as the gateway to Hells Canyon, is celebrated for its wonderful wine-growing terrain, rich cultural scene and incredible recreation opportunities. From Lewiston, drive along the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway—Idaho’s longest byway—and follow the path of Lewis and Clark through this region and learn more about the culture of the Nez Perce.
Pick a Town, and Start Exploring
Moscow
You won’t want to mistake Moscow for just another college town. Home to the University of Idaho, this town is known for its lively celebrations, enviable outdoor offerings and charming local scene.
Don’t Leave Town
Without Visiting…
Festivals
FestivalsKnown to some as the “Fest City,” Moscow (pronounced Moss-koe, not like the Russian capital city) earned this title with its monthly Artwalks October through May, frequent live music performances and an array of delightful festivals. Check out the Moscow Winterfest, Pour Company Rare Beer Fest, Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival or Moscow Renaissance Fair to join the fun.
Moscow Farmers Market
Spend a Saturday walking around the Moscow Farmers Market, a thriving event highlighting products from local farmers, musicians and artisans that runs May through October.
University of Idaho
The University of Idaho campus offers attractions for more than just students. Stroll around the University of Idaho Arboretum and Botanical Garden, which features a collection of the Pacific Northwest’s native plants, and the University of Idaho Golf Course, where you can enjoy lessons or book a tee time on the public green.
Appaloosa Museum and Heritage Center
Learn about the history of the magnificent Appaloosa horse and its ties to the region with a self-guided tour at the Appaloosa Museum and Heritage Center.
Latah Trail
Once operating as the Moscow–Arrow rail line, the Latah Trail follows State Highway 8 for 12 scenic miles on a wide, paved path to Troy.
Bill Chipman Trail
Stroll or ride the Bill Chipman Trail, a gentle seven mile paved route with access to Pullman, Washington.
Palouse Divide
When the snow flies, visit the Palouse Divide to enjoy Nordic trails for skate and cross-country skiing, a snowshoeing space and backcountry skiing.
Colter’s Creek
Sip and sample award-winning wines in downtown Moscow at the Colter’s Creek tasting room and even stay overnight in the historic Hattabaugh Hotel right upstairs.
Moscow Alehouse
Dig into delicious eats at the Moscow Alehouse with outdoor dining, craft beers, burgers and other pub favorites.
The Breakfast Club
The Breakfast Club is a locally adored, bustling breakfast and lunch stop in the center of town.
Sangria Grille
Try the Sangria Grille to sample the inventive Latin American menu using regional ingredients.
One World Café
One World Café has been crafting quality beverages downtown since 2005, and guests can often find free live music on weekends.
Orofino
Situated in north central Idaho, Orofino is a go-to location for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs and those looking for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. Visitors can find access to nature trails, historical sites and inviting lakes, rivers and reservoirs during this small-town getaway.
Don’t Leave Town
Without Visiting…
Dworshak State Park
Dworshak State Park on the western side of Dworshak Reservoir and Dam. Enjoy camping, hiking and disc golf, as well as boating, fishing, swimming and waterskiing.
Clearwater Historical Museum
Explore exhibits about the Lewis and Clark expedition, the Nez Perce tribe and more at the Clearwater Historical Museum.
Canoe Camp
Canoe Camp, recognized as an important site of the Nez Perce National Historical Park, is the location in which the Nez Perce tribe aided the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery in carving out canoes to continue their journey to the Pacific Ocean in 1805. The site contains a nature trail with interpretive signs.
Fiesta En Jalisco
While in town, visit Fiesta En Jalisco to satisfy a craving for homemade Mexican food.
Ponderosa Restaurant and Brass Rail Lounge
Dine at Ponderosa Restaurant and Brass Rail Lounge to order from a delicious family-style menu.
Augie’s
Stop at Augie’s, a shop with artisan sandwiches, soups, salads and, if you need a little pick-me-up, espresso drinks.
Grangeville
Get outside and uncover sensational historical sites, museums, pristine nature and miles of trails in Grangeville for a wide variety of all-season adventures.
Don’t Leave Town
Without Visiting…
Tolo Lake
Tolo Lake, a significant cultural location for the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) people. Visitors can learn about the historical importance of this area in the Tolo Lake Visitor Center, while at the visitor center make sure to check out the resident mammoth replica.
Fishing Spots
Reel in a catch with convenient fishing spots on the epic waterways of the Salmon and Little Salmon rivers, as well as the historic South Fork of the Clearwater River.
Hells Canyon
Tour Hells Canyon from a new perspective on a jet boat tour upriver or get a bird’s-eye view of the spectacular canyon on a Hells Canyon helicopter tour.
Grangeville Border Days
Grangeville Border Days, Idaho’s Oldest Rodeo, is put on annually on Independence Day weekend and offers art shows, parades, competitive sports and the “world’s largest egg toss.”
Snowhaven Ski Area and Tubing Area
Snowhaven Ski Area and Tubing Area features downhill skiing, snowboarding and tubing.
Fish Creek Cross Country Ski Trails
The Fish Creek Cross Country Ski Trails include five loops ranging from one to seven miles long with scenic overlooks.
Cottonwood Butte Ski Area
Cottonwood Butte Ski Area offers four groomed ski runs ranging from intermediate to advanced, a bunny hill and six powder trails that wind through the trees.
Crema Café
Start your day at Crema Café with freshly brewed coffee and homemade sweet and savory goods.
the Trails Restaurant and Lodge
While in town, don’t miss The Trails Restaurant and Lodge.
Palenque Mexican Restaurant
Head to Palenque Mexican Restaurant for an evening of family-style food and fun.
Seasons Restaurant
Chow down at Seasons Restaurant offering hearty entrées and drink specials.
Kamiah
Kamiah is a small town with abundant adventure opportunities. With river access for whitewater rafting and fishing, Nez Perce history and countless other recreational activities, this spot is well-suited to satisfy a taste for adventure.
Don’t Leave Town
Without Visiting…
Clearwater River
The Clearwater River runs alongside Kamiah, and with it, whitewater rafting, fishing and wildlife-watching abound.
Lochsa River
Also in the area, the Lochsa River—a tributary of the middle fork of the Clearwater River—with premier whitewater rafting and fishing.
Upper Clearwater River Corridor
The Upper Clearwater River Corridor has off-roading routes for ATV and OHV that gives riders the chance to experience this region from a different perspective. Visit Shearer Park for trailhead access.
Nez Perce National Historic Trail
Immerse yourself in Nez Perce culture by visiting important cultural sites throughout this area. Explore the Idaho portion of the Nez Perce National Historic Trail and make a stop to visit the Heart of the Monster, a site that embodies the Nez Perce creation story.
Nez Perce National Historical Park
Continue your explorations at the Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center with exhibits showcasing clothing, tools, weapons and ceremonial objects.
Riverfront Park
Riverfront Park, true to its name, faces the Clearwater River and has playground equipment, hiking access and its own nature trail, which begins in the park and provides an easy walk with the chance to spot wildlife.
Kamiah Valley Museum
The Kamiah Valley Museum covers topics such as the Lewis and Clark Expedition, crafts from the Nez Perce tribe and even mammoth bones.
Kamiah Hotel Bar and Grill
Pull up a seat at the Kamiah Hotel Bar and Grill for steaks, soups, sandwiches and a good selection of spirits.
Hearthstone Restaurant and Bakery
Hearthstone Restaurant and Bakery considers bread baking to be its specialty but also serves a full menu for lunch and dinner.
Clearwater Brewing Co.
Settle in for a spell at Clearwater Brewing Co., where you can find microbrews and ciders with major flavor.
Fog Hill Coffee and Tea House
Try a fine tea or cup of coffee at Fog Hill Coffee and Tea House, a small-batch roasting company.
Can’t Get Enough of North Central Idaho?
The adventure continues… Keep exploring and add one of these towns to your trip.
