From endless grain fields around Moscow to the dramatic basalt walls of Hells Canyon near Lewiston, the scenery shifts quickly across north-central Idaho. The Lewis-Clark Valley, known for its connections to the Lewis and Clark expedition and the Nez Perce Tribe, anchors the southern portion of the journey. Whether your interests include fishing, rafting, boating, wine tasting, or brewery hopping, bookmark this guide for the best the region has to offer.
North-central Idao is still building its boutique lodging infrastructure, but what exists reflects the region’s character — independent, unpretentious, and evocative of its historical backdrop. From a renovated motor inn on Moscow’s Main Street to a winery estate above the Clearwater River, the options are small in number. Rooms fill fast, especially during University of Idaho event weekends, so book early. That being said, the new Courtyard by Marriott in Lewiston and the reliable Best Western Plus University Inn in Moscow offer lovely service and clean spacious rooms. You’ve got options!
Best Restaurants
Moscow punches well above its weight for a college town of 25,000, with a dining scene that draws on local farms, a creative culinary community, and the kind of adventurous eaters that a university town tends to attract. Lewiston adds steakhouse tradition and a handful of spots worth the drive between wine tastings. Think Walla Walla 20 or 30 years ago with fair prices and friendly people.
Best Wineries
The Lewis-Clark Valley AVA is one of America’s newest wine regions, established in 2016 across the Idaho-Washington border where the Snake and Clearwater Rivers converge. With its long growing season, ancient soils shaped by the Missoula Floods, and winemakers who got into the business because they love it, you’ll find genuine people with real passion behind their labels. The region has the potential to match its western peers in quality, so get there now before everyone else does.
Best Cultural Activities
Few American regions carry as much origin story history as the Lewis Clark Valley. Lewis and Clark spent more time with the Nez Perce than any other tribe on their journey west. What followed their passage was the beginning of consequential collisions: miners, missionaries, and ranchers pushing into Nimiipuu lands long called home before European settlers. Today the region is a hub of agriculture, education, and river commerce but the stories of centuries past linger for visitors to discover.
Best Outdoor Activities
The Lewis-Clark Valley offers endless opportunities to be outside — in fact, that’s the preferred activity for most folks who visit or call the area home. Jet boat tours run the Snake River past ancient Nez Perce petroglyphs and bighorn sheep. White sand beaches line the Washington and Idaho banks. In Moscow, stroll the gardens of a college arboretum or tackle nearly 60 miles of trails on Moscow Mountain. There’s always more to do — so stay longer than you think.
