Northwest Passage Scenic Byway
Northwest Passage Scenic Byway Overview

Trace the historic route of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark as they searched, at the request of President Thomas Jefferson, for a passage between the Missouri and Columbia Rivers. When you travel the beautiful Northwest Passage Scenic Byway, you will find the same sparkling rivers, deep canyons, and rolling hills that Lewis and Clark found on their epic journey.

The Clearwater River is an exhilarating sight even from the window of your vehicle, and there are many pullouts along the way where you can step out and hear the roar of the rapids. But if you really want to take advantage of the churning whitewater, hop aboard a raft or kayak and experience the river up close and personal.

After traversing the Clearwater River canyon, climb south to the Camas Prairie. Along the way you will see numerous Nez Perce cultural sites and Lewis and Clark Expedition campsites. View displays, cultural demonstrations, and historical movies featuring the traditions of the Nez Perce Tribe when you visit the Nez Perce National Historical Park Museum at Spalding.

In addition to experiencing the intrigue of historical sites and events along the byway, also take a moment to enjoy the patchwork of wheat, barley, peas, alfalfa, and wildflowers that wave in the gentle breeze of the Camas Prairie.

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Other Stories

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  • The Nez Perce of Idaho

    From where they crouched in the tall September grass in 1805, three young Nez Perce boys watched William Clark and a few men approach the Nez Perce lodges. Clark had just crossed the Bitterroot Mountains ahead of his companion, Meriwether Lewis, using Nez Perce hunting trails. To the boys'...

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