Looking for ideas for unique, off-the-beaten-path, destinations and experiences? We can help! The Lewis Clark Valley is easily accessible via highway and airline, has a small-town feel with world-class outdoor recreation, wine, fishing, history and culture, and is the gateway to Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest river gorge.
We’ve provided a snapshot of our area and some story pitches below. If you see something that piques your interest, or need assistance with another story idea, please reach out and we’ll be happy to help provide answers, content, and more!
Lewis Clark Valley Snapshot
Get a quick overview of what makes our valley a unique place to visit and find out some quirky tidbits about our area.
MEDIA PITCHES
HELLS CANYON – NORTH AMERICA’S DEEPEST RIVER GORGE
At 7,900 feet, Hells Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America, even deeper than the Grand Canyon. It’s where a rugged landscape rich in wildlife meets the tales of miners and messages of ancient petroglyphs carved in the rocks. The Snake River that runs through the canyon is as big as the landscape with thrilling whitewater rapids and beautiful white, sandy beaches. Access to the majority of this magnificent wilderness area is limited to boats by permit. Guided jet boat and rafting tours provide visitors with a unique experience. Guides narrate the history and legends of the canyon, pointing out wildlife and signifiant historical sites. The snow-capped peaks of the Seven Devils Mountain range can be seen more than a mile above the river canyon. Hells Canyon attracts outdoor adventurers from all around the world. Over 900 miles of hiking trails run through the canyon making it the perfect place to unplug and get away.
UNIQUE HELLS CANYON EXPERIENCES
As if a Hells Canyon tour isn’t a unique bucket list experience all on its own, there are some extra exclusive ways to enjoy the stunning wilderness area that is Hells Canyon:
Stay Overnight in Hells Canyon
Jet boat tours in Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest river gorge, are typically ½ or 1-day tours. Two outfitters, Snake River Adventures and Beamers Hells Canyon Tours, offer overnight stays at their property! This offers a unique chance to experience the stunning night skies with no light pollution. It’s an opportunity to unplug and enjoy the sounds of the rushing Snake River, the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the canyon, wildlife viewing, and reconnect with nature.
More details about Hells Canyon Overnight Stays:
- Snake River Adventures’ Garden Creek Ranch is a Nature Conservancy
800.262.8874 or 208.746.6276 | snakeriveradventures.com - Beamers Hells Canyon Tours Copper Creek Lodge
509.758.4800 | hellscanyontours.com
Pair Wine with the Grandeur of Hells Canyon
There’s no better way to experience the scenic beauty of Hells Canyon than with a glass of award-winning red or crisp and chilled white or rosé in your hand. Two Hells Canyon outfitters offer experiences that pair wines of the Lewis-Clark Valley AVA with a guided jet boat tour in Hells Canyon. Each tour takes guests to their remote lodge on the Snake River. Enjoy a curated selection of hors d’oeuvres with a wine flight in the beautiful backdrop of Hells Canyon.
More details about Hells Canyon Wine Tasting Tours:
- Snake River Adventures Wine on the Snake
800.262.8874 or 208.746.6276 | snakeriveradventures.com - Beamers Hells Canyon Tours unWINEd Wine Tasting Cruise
509.758.4800 | hellscanyontours.com
Ride With the Mail in Hells Canyon
Experience one of the most unique mail routes in the United States by jet boat in Hells Canyon on the Snake River. The majority of the canyon is reachable only by boat. A variety of wildlife, big horn sheep and black bear, call this rugged canyon home, in addition to a few human residents. Due to the remote location, these residents have received their US Mail once each week via boat for the last 105 years, since 1919. Beamers Hells Canyon Tours has held the US Mail delivery contract for the past 50 years, making it the oldest commercial powerboat business on the Snake River. The US Mail delivery is offered as a guided tour for visitors to experience one of the most remote mail routes in the lower 48.
More details about Hells Canyon Mail Boat Tours:
- Beamers Hells Canyon Tours Mail Boat Tour
509.758.4800 | hellscanyontours.com
WINE TOURISM
The Lewis-Clark Valley American Viticultural Area
To some the Lewis-Clark Valley AVA, established in 2016, is a new frontier. However, before wine grapes were planted in Oregon or Washington, they were planted here in Lewiston in 1864. And, they were winning awards over California wines in three world’s fairs before Prohibition brought production to a halt. Today, 6 wineries, 16 vineyards, and more than 100 acres of vineyards are growing 20 different varietals.
Basalt Cellars
- 2003 – First established winery in the Lewis-Clark AVA since Prohibition
- Produce award-winning wines from estate vineyards as well other elite vineyards such as Bacchus, Weinbau, and Willard
Clearwater Canyon Cellars
- 2004 – Second established winery in the Lewis-Clark AVA since Prohibition
- 2020 Northwest Winery of the Year | Wine Press Northwest
- 2015 Idaho Winery of the Year | Wine Press Northwest
- Recipient of 41 Platinum Awards | Wine Press Northwest
- Vineyards and Tasting Room Located on a Century Farm
- Family owned and operated
Jovinea Cellars
- Produces small lot, artisan wines
- Fashions non-traditional blends, producing lesser known grape varietals (such as Touriga Nacional, Tinta Cao, Montepulciano, Dolcetto, & Roussanne)
- Name is a combination of “jovial” and “vines” (meaning “vine” in Latin)
- Family owned and operated
Lindsay Creek Vineyards
- Founded by fourth-generation grain farmers
- On-site menu includes breads, hummus, and other items made from their nearby crops of wheat and chickpeas
- Exceptional event space with a view for private parties, weddings, and more
- Hosts live music
Rivaura Estate Vineyard & Winery
- Named Winery to Watch by SIP Magazine in 2022
- Sip estate wines overlooking the vineyard and scenic Clearwater River
- Winemaker is a Master of Wine, one of only 56 in the United States
- Also home to River Ranch Co Brewery
- Family owned and operated
- Hosts live music and a food truck on-site
Two Bad Labs Vineyard & Winery
- Crafts award-winning wines from estate grapes as well as nearby Washington & Idaho vineyards
- Laid back atmosphere where there’s always room for one more dog, one more person, and another glass of wine
- Hosts live music and open mic nights
UNIQUE WINE TASTING EXPERIENCES
Twisted Vine Wine Tours isn’t your typical wine tour company. Owner Clint Hoiland not only transports you to the best wineries, but he also shares the history of wine, tells of the unique terroir, introduces you to the winemakers and winemaking process, and shares the culture of the area while you sample award-winning wines.
Twisted Vine Wine Tours | 509.295.1306 | twistedvinewt.com
HISTORICAL TOURISM
This valley has been the home of the Nimiipuu, or Nez Perce people, since time immemorial. In 1806, the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery expedition passed through this region bringing the first white man. The discovery of gold in 1860 brought many more, including a strong contingent from China. Lewiston was established as the first capital of the newly established Idaho Territory in 1863. A year later, the territorial seal and government archives were removed by force and taken to Boise. A replica of the first capitol building can be seen next to the Nez Perce County Historical Museum.
Lewis & Clark Expedition
Lewiston, Idaho and Clarkston, Washington are named for Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, the famed explorers. The 225th anniversary of the Corps of Discovery passing through our region is in 2026. The expedition spent a month traveling along the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway reaching present-day Lewiston on October 10.
The Nez Perce County Museum and the Lewis and Clark Discovery Center at Hells Gate State Park offer more information into the expedition.
- Nez Perce County Museum | 0306 3rd Street; Lewiston, ID | 208.743.2535 | nezpercecountymuseum.com
- Lewis and Clark Discovery Center | 5100 Hells Gate Rd; Lewiston, ID | 208.799.5015 | parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/hells-gate/
UNIQUE HISTORICAL EXPERIENCES
Idaho History Tours lead you back in time through stories and visits to key historical landmarks including a replica of Idaho’s First Territorial capitol building and one of Lewiston’s original trolley cars. Explore beneath the sidewalks of Lewiston. Tour historic buildings with documented paranormal activity as you listen to the stories of their ghostly residents.
Idaho History Tours | 208.790.1257 | idahohistorytours.com
CULTURAL TOURISM
Nimiipuu – The Legacy of the Nez Perce People
UNIQUE CULTURAL EXPERIENCES
Nez Perce Tourism
Immerse your senses, heart, and soul in the rich history and culture of the Nez Perce, or Nimiipuu (The People). Listen to the echoes of the ancestors through singing and drumming at the site of 8,000-year-old petroglyphs. Walk in their steps while hearing stories that have been passed down from ancestors. Join Nimiipuu guides on a jet boat trip into Hells Canyon where legends are told and ancient villages come alive through their stories. Experience the connection with the sacred Appaloosa horse during a riding session. Spend time in the Nimiipuu homeland, interact with local tribal people, and see life from a new perspective.
More details about Nez Perce Cultural Tours:
- Nez Perce Tourism | 208.790.8873 | nezpercetourism.com
Tours available:
- Nez Perce Jet Boat Tour
- 2-Day, 1-Night Among Nez Perce
- 3-Day, 2-Night Nez Perce Journey
- Nimiipuu Whitewater Rafting
- Culture & Class Sip & Paint
- Day with the Nimiipuu
- Nez Perce Appaloosa Horse Riding Session
Nez Perce National Historical Park
The Nez Perce National Historical Park headquarters is located a short distance from Lewiston. The park is comprised of 38 sites, most of which are located in north central Idaho. The visitor center was remodeled in 2023 and has fascinating displays of Nez Perce clothing, tools, weapons, and ceremonial objects. Interactive displays feature stories told by Native Nimiipuu people. A film, Of One Heart, provides an introduction to the Nez Perce. Behind-the-scenes tours of collections not on display to the public are offered Memorial Day to Labor Day.
More details about the park:
- Nez Perce National Historical Park | 208.843.7001 | nps.gov/nepe
OUTDOOR RECREATION
The abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities in the Lewis Clark Valley attracts residents and visitors alike. The mild year round temperatures are an outdoor mecca for recreational enthusiasts.
The Clearwater Snake River Recreation Trail offers more than 25 miles of paved riverside pathways for biking, walking, and running. Parks, picnic areas, interpretive sites, and boat launches dot the trails.
From Heller Bar at the mouth of the Grande Ronde River/Snake River down river to Lower Granite Dam is about 65 miles of river recreation. There’s always another bend in the river to discover and find your own place to float or fish, ski/wake surf/wakeboard/tube, kayak, or paddle board. White sandy beaches offer the perfect place to settle in for the day or stop by for a picnic.
The Hells Gate Habitat Management Unit offers 600 acres of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding.
FISHING
UNIQUE FISHING EXPERIENCES
Fishing for steelhead and salmon in the Lewis Clark Valley offers an unparalleled experience for anglers. Where the Clearwater and Snake Rivers converge is a prime destination for these prized fish. Fall and spring runs attract fishermen from all over.
The monster white sturgeon are the largest freshwater fish in North America. These fish are native to Hells Canyon. Believe us when we say, “this is one fish tale you won’t need to embellish!” The largest sturgeon caught to-date was half-an-inch short of 10 feet!
GOLF
Golf is a year round sport in the Lewis Clark Valley. It’s dubbed the Banana Belt because of the region’s mild winter climate and elevation at just over 700’ above sea level. The valley courses are open most of the year while the surrounding northwest is covered in frost and snow.The upcoming winter months may have one dreaming of a sunny golf vacation far away but the good news is you don’t have to travel far from your northwest home to golf year-round. Four golf courses and 72 holes of golf are waiting for you to explore.
Red Wolf Golf Club
This 18-hole course is adjacent to the beautiful Snake River. It’s mostly flat and is easily walkable. Ponds and bunkers are strategically located and the greens are notoriously fast. The tree-lined course can test your patience if you have a hook or a slice. This course has a slope rating of 138 and a total of 6,650 yards. redwolfgolfclub.com | 509.758.7911
Quail Ridge Golf Course
Located on the south end of Clarkston, Quail Ridge Golf Course has 18 holes of challenging play. The rolling terrain will give you plenty of opportunities to enhance your sidehill lie skills. Many holes offer stunning views of the Lewis Clark valley. Most fairways are wide open with some out-of-bounds and a few ponds and bunkers to test your accuracy. This course has a slope rating of 117 and is listed at a total of 6,072 yards. golfquailridge.com | 509.758.8501
Bryden Canyon Golf Course
This scenic 18-hole course, with a slope rating of 125 and 6,359 yards, offers views of the entire Lewis Clark valley. It’s a wide-open course that will still challenge your skills. It’s considered the best bang-for-your-buck golf in the valley and the friendly staff are a bonus. brydencanyongolf.com | 208.746.0863
Lewiston Golf & Country Club
With a slope rating of 125 and 6,728 yds in total length and yardages ranging from 5,365 to 6,591, the course at Lewiston Golf & Country Club is pristine. Fairways wind through housing and next to canyon walls, often with views of deer, chukar and other wildlife. One signature hole will have you questioning whether to layup to cross a canyon or swing with all you’ve got from the tee box. Another par 3 has golfers teeing it up on elevated tee boxes across a pond to a green next to a waterfall. With amazing views of the Lewis Clark valley and the Snake River, this unique course has been designed to challenge any golfer. golflgcc.com | 208.746.2801
HUNTING
The region’s mix of terrain, from steep canyons to river bottoms, challenges hunters and promises an exhilarating experience and diverse habitats for a variety of game, including elk, deer, bear, and upland birds.
UNIQUE HUNTING EXPERIENCES
The Jack O’Connor Hunting Heritage & Education Center shares the legacy of renowned sportsman Jack O’Connor. A treasure trove of stunning wildlife trophies acquired from all corners of the globe reside in the permanent collection.
5600 Hells Gate Road; Lewiston, ID | 208.743.5043 | jack-oconnor.org