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An aerial view of a yellow jet boat on the bank of the Snake River in Hells Canyon.
Hells Canyon, near Pittsburg Landing. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
people sleep under the stars in sleeping bags with an illuminated green tent in the background
Riverside camping, Lower Salmon Canyon, near Lewiston. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism.
The building exterior of the Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center.
Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center, Spalding. Photo Credit: Visit Idaho.
Several baskets of fresh produce, including lettuce, onions, potatoes, carrots and broccoli at a stand at the Moscow Farmers Market.
Moscow Farmers Market, Moscow. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
A field of gold Canola flowers on highway 95
Canola flowers along Highway 95, near Cottonwood. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.
sun setting over Moscow, Idaho's green rolling hills landscape with trees in the background
Palouse Hills, near Moscow. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.
People holding paddles on a red raft navigate through white water in the Lower Salmon Canyon.
Lower Salmon Canyon, near Lewiston. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
a museum display of a native horse
Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center, Spalding. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.
people smack their red rafting paddles together in excitement as they raft down the Lochsa River
Rafting, Lochsa River, near Kooskia. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.

North Central Idaho

Packed with breathtaking wilderness, rolling hills, farmland and flower-filled meadows, north central Idaho is rich in cultural importance and outdoor activities. Tour the many sites that make up the Nez Perce National Historical Park, which celebrates the history of the Nez Perce (Nimiipuu). The region is also known for its rafting and fishing opportunities, while towns like Orofino, Kooskia and Kamiah, offer small-town hospitality and are perfect base camps for outdoor adventures.

    Cities & Towns

  • Moscow
  • Lewiston
  • Riggins
  • Cottonwood
  • White Bird
  • Orofino
  • Kooskia
  • Kamiah
  • Grangeville

Take the Road Less Traveled

North central Idaho is brimming with unexpected discoveries … Start your journey in Lewiston, and venture off the beaten path to uncover a treasure trove of nearby adventures.

Go Beyond
Lewiston and Beyond
There’s More to Explore in North Central Idaho
aerial view of Hells Canyon

Get to Know North Central Idaho

Need some ideas for your next Idaho road trip? Check out these travel tips and start planning your adventure.

Learn About Idaho’s Native Nations

The Nez Perce occupied the lands and waters of modern-day Idaho, Washington, Oregon and Montana long before the creation of the Nez Perce Reservation.

Tell Me More About the Nez Perce Tribe

Need Help Planning Your Next Adventure?

Here you’ll find frequently asked questions about north central Idaho.

Where can I experience Native American culture?

Various sites affiliated with the Nez Perce National Historical Park and the park’s Visitor Center in Spalding or take a tour through Hells Canyon to learn about the Nimiipuu homeland.

What historical sites or museums can I visit in north central Idaho?

Nez Perce National Historic Trail, Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, Weippe Prairie, Historical Museum at St. Getrude, Lewis & Clark Discovery Center at Hells Gate State Park, and the Appaloosa Museum.

What is there to do in winter?

Try cross-country skiing or Nordic skiing at Winchester State Park or by accessing Park N’ Ski areas near Grangeville and Moscow. Enjoy the charm of local ski hills at Bald Mountain, Cottonwood Butte, and Snowhaven.

Are there wineries and tasting rooms to visit in north central Idaho?

Yes. The Lewis-Clark Valley AVA encompasses an area in Idaho and Washington. Find tasting rooms in Lewiston, Moscow or Juliaetta to sample the 20 unique varietals that grow here.

What are popular summer activities?

This region has pristine rivers, deep canyons, and ample wilderness to explore. Jet boating, whitewater rafting, fishing, ATVing, hiking, and biking are all great summer options.

What time zone is north central Idaho in?

This portion of the state uses Pacific Standard Time (PST) instead of Mountain Standard Time (MST). Time zones change as you cross over the Salmon River on the Time Zone Bridge in Riggins.

Learn More About Our Regional Partners

aerial view of the Salmon River
Salmon River, Riggins. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.
A small boat jets under the Southway Bridge in Lewiston
Boating along the Snake River, Lewiston. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
Person walking through DeVoto Memorial Cedar Grove, near Lowell
DeVoto Memorial Cedar Grove, near Lowell. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.

Let's Start Planning

The Scenic Route

Pack up the car and discover the magic of north central Idaho’s scenic byways:

an aerial view of a raised, wooden railway over evergreen trees

Getting to
North Central Idaho

Maps & Guides

Planning your Idaho getaway couldn’t be easier with our free travel guides and maps. Inspiration and information at your fingertips.

Learn More

Head in the Clouds

Flying to Idaho? Check out Lewiston-Nez Perce County Regional Airport in Lewiston, Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport in Moscow, Walla Walla Regional Airport in Walla Walla, Spokane International Airport in Spokane, or the Boise Airport in Boise for the most convenient access.

Places to Stay

From camping under the stars to cozy cabins, vacation rentals and hotels, find the accommodation that fits your every need.

Places to Stay
brick sign reading Welcome to Moscow