Top 7 things to do in the Lewiston/Clarkston Valley
Situated at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers, Lewiston is an ideal destination for exploring the rugged natural beauty and historic attractions of north-central Idaho. This area was hailed as a "paradise" when the famous explorers, Lewis and Clark, first laid eyes on it nearly two centuries ago, and it continues to captivate visitors today with its wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities.
Lewiston is the end point of our Snake River through Hells Canyon trip, which takes in some of the United States’ most spectacular whitewater in North Americas deepest river canyon. The city and its surrounding valley are an ideal spot to spend a few days at the end of your adventure, delving into the local history and culture.
In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best things to do in the area if you have a spare afternoon or free day before returning home.
A brief history of Lewiston
The Nimiipuu (more commonly known as the Nez Perce) inhabited this mountainous region for thousands of years before the arrival of European fur traders in 1803. Canadian explorer David Thompson was scouting the area on behalf of the Hudson's Bay Company and established the first permanent white settlement in what would become the state of Idaho, a post he named MacKenzie's Post. While this failed, the Nez Perce's next major encounter with outsiders came just two years later when the Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through the area.
In the wake of the 1860 gold discovery in the nearby town of Pierce, Lewiston experienced a boom as thousands of prospectors, merchants, and suppliers flocked to the area in search of riches. The mining opportunities were so substantial that by 1865, Chinese workers were permitted to join the gold rush, arriving in droves to stake their own claims.
The town was officially founded in 1861 and its strategic riverside location transformed it into Idaho's only seaport and a bustling hub for mining, commerce, and transportation. Today, Lewiston and its twin city of Clarkston, Washington (just across the state line) continue to thrive as culturally diverse communities that celebrate their rich history through annual festivals, concerts, and rodeos.
7 things to do in and around Lewiston
1. Visit the Nez Perce National Historic Park Museum
Located in Spalding (a 20-minute drive from Lewiston), the Nez Perce National Historic Park Museum offers a fascinating insight into the cultural heritage of the Nez Perce people. It details how their way of life was deeply intertwined with the land and its natural resources, with the tribe roaming freely across the open range to trade with neighboring tribes, harvest indigenous plants and berries, and fish the rivers for salmon.
Through the museum’s multimedia exhibits and displays, visitors are invited to delve into this fascinating history. Film screenings, interactive kiosks, and informative displays bring to life the Nez Perce culture, from their beadwork and basket-weaving techniques to their spiritual beliefs. The museum also features displays of ancient tools, weapons, and other artifacts that provide a tangible connection to the tribe's storied past.
The Nez Perce National Historic Park Museum is open daily from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm, with special events and programs often scheduled in the evenings. It is one of 38 sites scattered across Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington that make up the Nez Perce National Historic Park.
2. Explore the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
The Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is a magnificent tract of wilderness located near Riggins, around a two hours drive south of Lewiston; perfect to fill a free day in the area. It encompasses the deepest river gorge in North America, carved over millennia by the mighty Snake River, which we explore on our multi-day whitewater rafting trip.
Hells Canyon plunges nearly a mile and a half down from the peaks of the Seven Devils mountain range, creating a landscape of breathtaking scale and grandeur. Along the canyon's steep walls, the terrain shifts from forested slopes to desert-like expanses that support a diverse array of flora and fauna.
Aside from guided white-water rafting trips, adventure seekers can explore the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area while jet boating, fishing, and hiking. You can follow the 12-mile (round trip) Imnaha River Trail, which takes in wooden bridges, creeks, and seasonal waterfalls, or head upriver from Lewiston to discover the trails of Hells Gate State Park.
3. Walk the Latah Trail
Established in 1998 by a dedicated group of local advocates, the Latah Trail is a scenic 12-mile path that connects the college town of Moscow (about 30 minutes from Lewiston) to the community of Troy. It occupies the former right-of-way of the historic Moscow to Arrow railroad, offering a peaceful, car-free trail for walkers, runners, cyclists, and other non-motorized users.
As the trail departs Moscow, it follows the banks of Paradise Creek, before crossing over the South Fork of the Palouse River. Along this section, hikers and bikers are treated to sweeping views of the rolling Palouse hills, an undulating landscape shaped by glacial forces. The trail then winds its way through picturesque farmland where wheat, lentils, and peas are cultivated against a backdrop of small wooded groves and wetlands.
After traversing this pastoral countryside, the Latah Trail finally arrives in the town of Troy, where it terminates at a park along the West Fork of the Potlatch River. The Latah Trail is part of a larger 28-mile linear trail system that includes the Bill Chipman Trail and the Paradise Path, which together connect the communities of Pullman, Moscow, and Troy.
4. Visit the Lewis and Clark Discovery Center
Built to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the historic expedition, the Lewis & Clark Discovery Center is located within Hells Gate State Park. It allows visitors to immerse themselves in the journey of these legendary explorers as they traversed what is now the state of Idaho.
Outside the center is a two-acre interpretive plaza, strategically situated along the banks of the Snake River. Meandering pathways wind through the grounds, leading visitors past sculptures crafted by Rip Caswell to evoke the inspiring landscapes encountered by Lewis and Clark.
The center itself houses a wealth of educational displays, including an original 32-minute documentary film, "From the Mountains to the Sea: Lewis and Clark in Idaho," chronicling the explorers' passage through the region. For those seeking a memento of their visit, the on-site gift shop offers a selection of souvenirs and keepsakes.
The Lewis and Clark Discovery Center is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm everyday.
5. Admire the Victorian architecture of McConnell Mansion
Showcasing a captivating blend of late 19th-century Victorian styles, the McConnell Mansion is an architecturally rare residence in the heart of Moscow, Idaho. It was designed with elements of both the Queen Anne and Eastlake movements and stands as a well-preserved example of the era's eclectic tastes.
Constructed in 1886, the home was originally built for William J. McConnell, a prominent figure who served as both governor and senator of Idaho. The McConnells resided in the stately abode until 1893 when financial troubles stemming from a national depression forced them to sell the property. Over the following decades, the mansion was occupied by a succession of notable residents before being gifted to Latah County and opening as a museum in 1971.
Today, this architectural gem is celebrated for the wealth of period details that adorn its exterior and interior. From the 41 windows on its façade to the etched and beveled glass topping the entryway, the home is a treasure trove for architecture enthusiasts. Inside, the grandeur continues with a sweeping banister, original fireplace, and stunning pine woodwork that will transport you back in time.
McConnell Mansion is open from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm Tuesday to Friday.
6. Sample beers at the Riverport Brewing Co.
Located in the charming town of Clarkston, Washington, Riverport Brewing Co. is a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts. Step inside their spacious taproom and you're greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere that has made this a beloved community hangout.
The brewery's impressive selection of hand-crafted beers includes the crisp and refreshing Blonde Moment, the boldly hoppy Seven Devils IPA, and the richly smooth Old Man River Oatmeal Stout. It’s possible to sample a variety of the beers on offer or opt for a pint or a growler to enjoy on-site or take home.
The laid-back vibe of the taproom encourages visitors to settle in and chat with the locals, many of whom bring potluck dinners to share or order pizzas from a nearby restaurant. While no food is served at the Riverport Brewing Co. itself, there are often food trucks parked outside where you can grab a bite to eat (BYO food is welcome!)
Riverport Brewing Co. has various opening hours between 12:00 pm and 10:00 pm Monday to Saturday.
7. Try wine made with local grapes at Clearwater Canyon Cellars
Tucked away in the rolling hills of the Lewis-Clark Valley, Clearwater Canyon Cellars crafts an exceptional selection of premium wines that reflect the region's terroir. It's the brainchild of winemaker and owner Coco Umiker, who is eager to share her passion for viticulture with visitors.
At the winery's new tasting room, located on the family's historic Idaho Century Farm, you can sample a variety of wines while learning about the winemaking experience. All of the wines at Clearwater Canyon Cellars are made exclusively from grapes grown within a 20-mile radius, ensuring each bottle is a testament to the unique microclimates and soil profiles of the area.
Beyond the tasting experience, visitors are invited to wander the grounds and explore the historic farmstead. On guided tours, you may even have a chance to visit the winery's state-of-the-art production facility, where rows of gleaming stainless steel tanks and oak barrels stand ready to nurture the next vintage.
Clearwater Canyon Cellars is open from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm Tuesday to Saturday.
Rafting the Snake River through Hells Canyon with ROW Adventures
The Snake River is one of America's most magnificent waterways, carving a dramatic path through the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. For decades, ROW Adventures has been guiding guests on unforgettable rafting adventures along this legendary river, offering an immersive journey through a land steeped in natural wonder and rich history.
Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America, straddles the border between Idaho and Oregon and serves as a magnificent backdrop for some of the most exhilarating rapids in the country. Rafting the Snake River is about far more than just the whitewater - it's about connecting with the land's cultural and natural history while spotting the wildlife that calls this area “home”.
On our guided rafting trips through Hells Canyon, guests are treated to a truly immersive experience, with delicious meals and a comfortable wilderness camp set up ahead of your arrival each day. At the end of what is sure to be an unforgettable five days surrounded by wilderness, you’ll arrive safe and sound in the city of Lewiston where more adventures await.
