Kamiah | Kooskia | Clearwater | Stites | Dixie | Red River | Elk City
The Highway 14 Corridor in North Central Idaho offers a journey through rugged beauty, rich history, and year-round activities. Stretching from the small towns of Kamiah and Kooskia to the remote wilderness of Elk City, Dixie, and beyond, this route connects travelers to historical landmarks, outdoor recreation, and the timeless charm of Idaho’s backcountry.
The town of Kamiah nestles on the banks of the beautiful Clearwater River in a valley surrounded by scenic foothills. This town serves as a hub for some of the best hunting and fishing in the United States.
Kamiah is a unique blend of western, Victorian, and Nez Perce cultures. For centuries, Kamiah was the winter home of the native Nez Perce people. Their creation story takes place here at the Heart of the Monster.
Kooskia
Nestled at the confluence of the Clearwater and Lochsa Rivers, Kooskia is a quaint town with a rich history tied to the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) people and early settlers. It serves as a gateway to the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and the wild and scenic Lochsa River, making it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Whether you’re rafting the rapids or exploring cultural sites, Kooskia offers a mix of adventure and heritage.
Stites/Clearwater
The neighboring communities of Stites and Clearwater offer quiet escapes surrounded by natural beauty. Located along the South Fork of the Clearwater River, they are ideal spots for fishing, camping, and enjoying serene landscapes. These small, close-knit communities provide a glimpse into the slower-paced, rural lifestyle of Idaho.
Elk City/Dixie/Red River
Tucked deep in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, Elk City, Dixie, and Red River are gateways to some of the most remote and pristine wilderness in Idaho. Rich in Gold Rush history, these towns offer a glimpse into Idaho’s mining past while serving as launching points for backcountry adventures. Whether you’re snowmobiling in winter, hiking in summer, or soaking in the Red River Hot Springs, these remote locales promise solitude and spectacular scenery.
Fall Activities
Leaf Peeping: The corridor comes alive with hues of gold, red, and orange as fall paints the landscape.
Hunting: This region is popular for elk and deer hunting, offering expansive wilderness and opportunities for seasoned and new hunters alike.
Scenic Drives
Highway 14 is a quiet, scenic leg of the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway. In autumn, it is a breathtaking journey along the South Fork of the Clearwater River.
Hiking, Camping, Boating, and ATV/Motorcycle Trail Rides
Centrally located to the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, there are literally hundreds of back country trails and logging roads that are waiting for you to explore.
Winter Activities
Fishing
The Clearwater River (and the South Fork) is famous for steelhead and salmon fishing. Trout, bass and other fish are plentiful here too. Fish with a guide or choose a spot along the shore to reel in some big ones.
Snowmobiling: Pristine trails around Elk City and Dixie are a snowmobiler’s paradise, offering miles of untracked powder.
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing: Enjoy peaceful treks through snow-covered forests for a true winter wonderland experience.
Spring/Summer Activities
Wildflower Viewing: As snow melts, hillsides and meadows bloom with vibrant wildflowers, making for stunning hikes and scenic drives.
• Fishing: Cast a line into the Clearwater River or local creeks for trout, steelhead, and more as the waters come alive with spring activity.
• Camping and Hiking: Discover endless trails leading into the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, with highlights like the Magruder Corridor and Red River Hot Springs. Camp under the stars or hike into the backcountry for solitude.
• ATV and Off-Roading: Elk City and Dixie are gateways to extensive off-road trail networks that attract adventurers.
Museums and Historic Sites
The Highway 14 Corridor is steeped in history:
• Kamiah: Once a key gathering place for the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) people, Kamiah is rich with cultural heritage. Visit the Heart of the Monster, a sacred site central to the Nimiipuu creation story.
• Kooskia: Explore connections to the Nez Perce National Historical Park and the history of the early pioneers who settled in this rugged terrain.
• Elk City & Dixie: These mountain towns were bustling hubs during Idaho’s Gold Rush era, and their rustic charm still reflects that vibrant past. Explore old mining relics and learn about the communities that thrived here.
Find Highway 14 Corridor Lodging:
Stites | Clearwater | Harpster
Events
June - Clearwater River Rush Jet Boat Races
July - Kamiah's"Biggest Little Rodeo in Idaho" | Elk City Wagon Road Days | Kooskia Days | Stites Days
August - Chief Lookingglass Powwow | Elk City Days
September - Kamiah BBQ Days
December - Lighted Christmas Parades
Whether you’re exploring cultural landmarks, hiking to breathtaking vistas, or taking on winter’s adventures, the Highway 14 Corridor offers unforgettable experiences year-round. Its rich history, seasonal activities, and stunning scenery make it a must-see destination in North Central Idaho.