Points of Interest

Gold Rush Historic Byway

The Gold Rush Historic Byway begins at the junction of US 12 and State Hwy 11 at Greer on the Clearwater River. The byway encompasses 42.5 miles of 2-lane road with some passing lanes. The road is well maintained with several turnouts for scenic viewing. You won't want to miss the breathtaking panoramic view of the Clearwater Valley. The road can be icy during winter months. Allow at least 2 1/2 hours for the round trip.

As you climb Greer Grade you will encounter rolling fields of farmland and within minutes find yourself surrounded by a forest thick with wildlife. The Historic town of Weippe is not far from where the Lewis and Clark expedition escaped starvation when they were fed by the Nez Perce Tribe.

Gold was first discovered in Idaho by early pioneers in Pierce. Idaho's first inaugural government building, the old Shoshone Courthouse, is also in Pierce. You will find a rich legacy of logging and mining at the museums, library and historical sites along the way.

The Gold Rush Historic Byway ends at Headquarters, the beginning of the Clearwater National Forest.

Special Attractions:

• Lewis & Clark Historical Sites
• Weippe Discovery Center
• Idaho's First County Courthouse
• J. Howard Bradbury Logging Museum
• Pierce City Library
• Historic Downtown
• Chinese Cemetery
• Bald Mountain Ski Area
• Clearwater National Forest

Services

Full services in Weippe and Pierce
Partial services in Greer
Headquarters has no services.

Activities and Attractions

Camping, fishing, hunting, skiing, snowmobiling, riding and hiking

• 3 RV parks in Pierce
• 2 RV parks in Weippe
• campgrounds in Fraser Park, Hollywood and Campbell's Pond
• Many camping areas in the surrounding Clearwater National Forest and the North Fork of the Clearwater River recreational area
• 350 miles of groomed and open trails, maintained regularly