The Nez Perce Historical Park is comprised of thirty-eight sites spread through Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana. Of these sites, three received notoriety as visited by Lewis and Clark. The Corps of Discovery passed through Nez Perce country during the fall of 1805 and spring of 1806.

On September 20, 1805, William Clark accompanied by a few of his men emerged from the Bitterroot Mountains into Nez Perce territory. The group first encountered the Nez Perce Indians on the grasses of the Weippe Prairie. On September 26, 1805, the group set up camp along the north fork of the Clearwater River. Here they spent the next 12 days hollowing out canoes for the trip down river to the Pacific Ocean.

After spending the winter along the Pacific coast, the Corps of Discovery returned to the Nez Perce territory. When the group arrived, snow still dusted the Bitter Root Mountains. Unable to pass through the mountains the group camped among the Indians providing medical aid in exchange for food.

The Nez Perce held a special relationship with the lands. The unique and special features of their homeland helped define their way of life. The distinct topography and prominent landmarks allowed the Nez Perce to share the stories handed down from one generation to the next.

Researched, written, and narrated by University of West Florida Public History Student Mindy Honeycutt