History & Culture

Nez Perce Tribe

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According to tribal legend, Nimiipuu, “the people,” were created in North Central Idaho at the dawn of time. There is evidence dating back more than 12,000 years of indigenous people inhabiting the region. French Fur Traders gave them the name Nez Perce when they began trading with the tribe.

The Nez Perce people are credited with saving the lives of the Corps of Discovery Expedition, who entered this area hungry and without adequate shelter from the harsh winter. The explorers would likely have suffered a tragic ending if not for the assistance of Nimiipuu. The tribe provided the members of the Lewis & Clark Expedition food, shelter and guidance for months while they were stuck here.

Nez Perce Tourism is the warm welcome to Nimiipuu Country, offering the only tours created to connect you to Nimiipuu culture through interactive storytelling, song, drum, and dance. From riverbeds to mountain tops, Nez Perce Tourism offers land and water journeys.

Today, the Tribe hosts PowWows and other community events in various locations throughout the year. And Tribal enterprises include forest products, limestone quarry operations, two popular casinos, an RV park, convenience stores and the Red Wolf Golf Club. Travelers are welcomed today just as the Nez Perce welcomed the Corps of Discovery Expedition nearly 200 years ago.

The rich history and customs of Nimiipuu are featured at the Nez Perce National Historical Park’s interpretive center and museum. The park includes 24 separate sites and offers informational programs to educate people about the tribe.

Clearwater River Casino & Lodge
Just east of Lewiston, along the Clearwater River, the Clearwater River Casino floor has nearly 40,0...
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Nez Perce National Historical Park
The Nez Perce National Park headquarters and museum memorializes Nimiipuu history and culture. It al...
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Nez Perce Tourism
At the foundation of this tourism company is the heartbeat of the Nimiipuu ancestors. Nez Perce Tourism provides exclusive experiences, where you ...
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Nez Perce Traditions Gift Shop
In Nez Perce Traditions Gift Shop you will find hand crafted items from tribal and local artists. Drop into the Beautiful Downtown Lewiston shopping d...
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Pair Adventure with a Perfect Culinary Side Trip
Superb food and drink make every adventure even more memorable. The Lewis Clark Valley has the perf...
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Qeqiit Restaurant
An ideal place to find all your favorite dishes inside the Clearwater River Casino and Resort. This casual family restaurant offers a great variety of...
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Red Wolf Golf Club
This easy-to-walk championship course is located in Clarkston, Washington, adjacent to the Snake River and is near Lewiston, Idaho. They offer year-ro...
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Spring for a Weekend Getaway in the Lewis Clark Va...
Spring is here and it’s time to get away! If you’re ready for golf, wine tasting, outdoor adven...
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Yáwwinma Café
This on-the-go cafe is sure to please, serving up pizza by the slice or full carry-out orders inside the Clearwater River Casino & Resort. Too ear...
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