The Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center is open from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Tuesday through Friday, and closed on Sundays, Mondays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The center was closed for remodel from December 3, 2023, until late spring 2024.
There are no entrance fees to visit any of the sites at Nez Perce National Historical Park. Admission is free for all activities.
From Lewiston, Idaho, take US Hwy 95 north to Spalding, where the Clearwater River meets the highway, and discover a rich tapestry of indigenous history and breathtaking landscapes.
Parking is available at various sites, including a turnout nine miles east of Lewiston on Hwy 12. No overnight parking or camping allowed. No specific RV size restrictions mentioned, but parking lots are generally accessible for cars, smaller RVs, and motorcycles. No parking fees indicated.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Nez Perce National Historical Park, spanning across Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington, is a verdant tapestry of valleys, prairies, mountains, and plateaus that have been the ancestral home of the nimíipuu (Nez Perce) people since time immemorial. This historical park, established in 1965, comprises 38 sites that weave together the rich history, culture, and resilience of the Nez Perce.
The park’s landscape is a kaleidoscope of seasonal changes, from the blooming wildflowers of spring to the golden hues of autumn. Visitors can explore the scenic trails, such as those around the Clearwater River, where the sounds of the river and the rustling of leaves create a serene backdrop. The waterways are home to an array of fish, including salmon and steelhead, attracting anglers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The Visitor Center near Spalding, Idaho, serves as a gateway to this vibrant world, offering engaging exhibits that delve into the Nez Perce’s deep connection to the land and their storied past, including the dramatic events of the 1877 Nez Perce War. Artifacts, traditional clothing, and multimedia presentations bring the history to life.
In the summer, the park hosts ranger-led tours and cultural events that celebrate the enduring presence of the Nez Perce. Nearby, the artisan town of Lewiston offers a blend of local craftsmanship and historic charm. For those seeking a more immersive experience, local outfitters provide guided canoe tours and hiking expeditions that allow visitors to delve deeper into the park’s natural and cultural beauty.
As the seasons transition, Nez Perce National Historical Park transforms, each phase unveiling a new layer of its timeless elegance. Whether you are drawn to the historic narratives, the pristine landscapes, or the vibrant cultural heritage, this park is an invitation to step into a world where history and nature intertwine in profound harmony.
- Area (mi²)
- 7.1
- Annual visitors
- 377 000
- Established year
- 1965
Top 3 Facts about Nez Perce National Historical Park
The park spans three main ecoregions, covering a wide range of elevations and climate, and is home to numerous animal species, including several sensitive ones, across 4,561 acres of diverse habitats.
In the heart of a diverse ecological tapestry, shortgrass prairies, sagebrush steppe, and conifer meadows host an array of wildlife. Cottontail rabbits, coyotes, and bobcats roam the grasslands, while peregrine falcons soar overhead. Salmon-filled streams and rivers support a rich aquatic life, and the landscape is dotted with camas and other unique flora. This realm is home to sensitive species like the mountain plover and great grey owl, making it a verdant paradise for nature enthusiasts.
In the heart of this vast landscape, the Snake River carves a channel deeper than the Grand Canyon, flanked by the Idaho Batholith’s granite core, which rises to elevations of 3,000-7,000 feet. The area’s unique basalt mounds, such as the Heart of the Monster, stand as sacred geological formations against a backdrop of glaciated highlands and diverse ecosystems.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days in late summer to explore this vast historical park. Visit the visitor center first, then navigate paved and rocky trails. Rest often and pack meals, as options are limited. Catch the Nez Perce Powwow in August for a rich cultural experience.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking shoes, and a multi-tool. For camping, bring a season-appropriate tent, sleeping bag, and a portable stove. Don’t forget headlamps, matches, and a first-aid kit. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from other animals. Never feed them and dispose of trash properly to preserve their natural habits. Stay on designated trails to minimize impact. Respect the environment as you would your own backyard.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and hot springs, and monitor weather conditions. Follow park signs and rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 208-843-7001. Stay informed about fire restrictions and trail closures.
Seasons
In spring, mild temperatures (40s-60s°F) and blooming wildflowers make for a perfect time to explore. Attend the park’s annual events, such as cultural presentations, and immerse yourself in the rich history and resilience of the nimíipuu people. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, the clear skies and gentle weather of March to May are highly recommended.
Experience summer’s warm days (70s-90s°F) with tipi set-ups and ranger programs. Join the Chief Joseph and Warriors Pow Wow in June, amidst sunny skies and mild evenings. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking cultural immersion.
Visit in fall for mild temperatures (40s-60s°F) and serene landscapes. Enjoy the Grand Exhibit Reopening in May, but for fall, immerse in historic trails and battlefields under golden foliage. Crisp air and fewer crowds make it an ideal time to explore.
Explore from October to April, with temperatures often in the 30s-40s°F, and occasional snow. Crisp winter air enhances the historical sites’ serene beauty, though visitor centers are open only Tuesday to Saturday, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM. Ideal for a tranquil, immersive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Nez Perce National Historical Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the park is Lewiston, Idaho, which is near the main campus of the park along the Clearwater River outside Spalding. Lewiston is also close to several of the park’s sites, including the visitor center in Lapwai.
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For kids, the short interpretive trails at the Spalding Site are a good option. These trails are relatively short and allow visitors to interact with the park’s resources, including a trail where the Lewis and Clark expedition built canoes in 1805. Restrooms and picnic tables are available, making it a family-friendly choice.
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Dogs are not allowed inside buildings, including visitor centers. Only service animals are permitted in these areas. Dogs can, however, accompany their owners on trails and in outdoor areas as long as they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
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Parking is free for visitors, including those with campers, motorhomes, and trailers. There are no entrance fees for recreational activities such as hiking or picnicking.
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The Nez Perce National Historical Park commemorates the Nez Perce War of 1877, a conflict that began on June 17, 1877, at White Bird Canyon, Idaho Territory, and ended with the surrender of the Nez Perce on October 5, 1877, in Montana. Key figures include Chief Joseph, who led the Nez Perce in their retreat, and U.S. military commanders Oliver O. Howard and Nelson A. Miles. The park also honors significant events such as the Battle of the Clearwater and the introduction of the horse to the Nez Perce in 1730.