Lewiston, ID Summary

The twin city of Lewiston (Clarkston sits across the Washington state line) was named for the famed explorer who passed through the region in 1805. Straddling the Snake and Clearwater Rivers, the former gold-mining camp evolved into a city, and the territorial capital in 1863, on what was traditional Nez Perce land. Lewiston, now with a population of 31,164, serves as an agricultural port from the Pacific coast via the Columbia River.

Downtown’s Pioneer Park features a typical 1860s log cabin and Luna House, the city’s first hotel, showcases pioneer artifacts and photographs in its museum. The Lewiston Roundup, Idaho’s oldest rodeo, pays homage to the West over three festive days which include cookouts, carnivals, and Nez Perce tribal dancing. The roundup takes place annually, during the first weekend in September.

Lewiston is the gateway to Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. With cliffs 7,900 feet above the deepest river gorge, the region is only accessible by jet-boat or float, but there are many outfitters in the area.

Adjacent to the Clearwater and Snake Rivers is the 20-mile stretch of the Levee Parkway from Hells Gate State Park. Midway along the drive is the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center that chronicles the explorers’ trek along the Snake River, and the indigenous tribes who first populated the valley. The Old Spiral Highway, branching off Hwy 95, twists over hills that look down into the valley.

Lewiston is serviced by buses and there is a small airport just south of town.