AMERICA, ONE BEAUTIFUL ROAD AT A TIME

Northwest Passage Scenic Byway

Idaho
Take your time. Make a few stops. Enjoy the view.
Tipis near Nez Perce National Historical Park in Spalding · Public Domain. Courtesy of Idaho Department of Commerce and Labor · Photo credits
THE JOURNEY IS THE REASON TO GO

Let the road set the pace.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition journeyed through north-central Idaho 200 years ago in search of the Northwest Passage. The sparkling rivers, deep canyons, and rugged mountains they encountered are relatively unchanged. Experience the culture, recreation, and scenery in this breathtaking land of the Nez Perce.

The experienceAll-American Road
Start with this outlineChoose a section of the named byway
Traditional tipis dot the landscape of the Nez Perce Indian Reservation. But don't be fooled: some are intended as visitor lodging. At Nez Perce National Historical Park in Spalding, in summer you can assist park rangers in demonstrating the proper way to pitch a Nez Perce lodge.
Tipis near Nez Perce National Historical Park in Spalding
Public Domain. Courtesy of Idaho Department of Commerce and Labor · Photo credits
A unit of the National Park Service, this visitor center and museum conveys the history and culture of the Nimiipuu people, and provides an excellent orientation to the features and stories associated with the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway.
Nez Perce National Historical Park in Spalding
Public Domain. Courtesy of Nez Perce National Historical Park · Photo credits

Before you drive

Choose your stops before departure and check current road access, weather and vehicle suitability. A byway listing does not guarantee that every section or visitor facility is open.

Make it a satisfying day

Choose a realistic section, then allow time for viewpoints, a town stop and breaks. Scenic mileage rarely tells the whole story of how long an outing will take.

Match the road to your vehicle

Check the exact roads for your car, RV or motorcoach. Tunnel dimensions, turning space, grades and road surfaces can matter as much as distance.

Official route information ↗State road-condition links ↗

Route overview and designation: Federal Highway Administration, America’s Byways. Research: October 2026. This is a travel idea, not live navigation or a guarantee that the full route is open. Confirm exact roads, current conditions, parking and any attraction reservations before departure.