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An aerial view of the Heart of the Monster site, surrounded by a sprawling field and a tree-covered hill off the side.

A Nez Perce Creation Story:

Heart of the Monster

The Nez Perce people say that they’ve been here since time immemorial, but where did it all begin? Join tribe member Mary Jane Oatman at the Heart of the Monster site as she shares the creation story of her people.

Listen to the Story
Map contour lines to add texture to page.
The Northwest Passage Scenic Byway winding along the Snake River in Hells Canyon at Hells Gate State Park.
Snake River along the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway, Hells Gate State Park, near Lewiston. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Buckle Up & Tour the Past

Travel through the ancestral home of the Nez Perce and encounter even more historical sites along the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway.

Let’s Ride
The rushing Selway River surrounded by tree-covered mountains.

Connect With Culture in Idaho

Care to dive deeper into the history and stories of the various tribes in Idaho? Visit the Culture page to find events, historic sites, immersive videos and other resources to help with your trip planning.

Keep Exploring
Antoinette Peters | Coeur d’Alene Tribe
Chantay Mejia | Shoshone-Bannock Tribe
Kit Julianto | Shoshone-Paiute Tribe
Sacajawea’s Legacy: A Family Journey in Idaho
Minidoka National Historic Site