The Lochsa

Idaho’s Wild & Scenic Gem

A Special Place Along Rough Water

In the heart of north central Idaho lies one of the West’s last truly untamed landscapes, commonly known as “the Lochsa.” A paradise of outdoor recreation for rafters, nature-lovers, and anyone seeking their next great adventure, the Lochsa draws people from around the world with its wild beauty.

This area follows and is defined by the Lochsa River, which starts near the Powell Ranger Station in northeastern Idaho and flows more than 70 miles south toward Lowell, Idaho. Along the way, it winds through the Nez Perce Clearwater National Forest in the Bitterroot Mountains, giving adventure-seekers a thrilling ride down Highway 12–also known as the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway–with breathtaking scenery at every turn.

The Lochsa (pronounced “lock-saw”) lives up to its name—“rough water” in the Nez Perce language. It’s so extraordinary that it was protected under the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act in 1968. Visitors to the Lochsa take in the churning rivers, towering mountains, sweeping landscapes, and iconic wildlife and fall in love with this wild gem of Idaho.

Know Before You Go

Exploring the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests

An Idaho Treasure

In the heart of central Idaho, the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest sprawls across over 4 million acres of rugged beauty. Mountain peaks touch the sky, deep river gorges carve the land, and everywhere you turn, nature reminds you why untouched wilderness is worth preserving. Inside these forests lies the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, one of the largest wild places left in America—a land where connection to nature is as natural as breathing.

The Bitterroot Mountains: An Iconic Border

Where Idaho meets Montana, the Bitterroot Mountains form a natural border and an age-old passageway. U.S. Highway 12 traces the path first shown to Lewis and Clark by the Nez Perce people—a timeless journey that follows the Lochsa River and echoes of the past. Along this drive, you’ll see the wild, stunning landscapes of the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, standing as it has for centuries.

The People of the Lochsa

The Nez Perce Trail: A Path Through Time

Designated a National Historic Trail in 1986, the Nez Perce Historic National Trail stretches over 1,170 miles from Oregon to Yellowstone. The Nez Perce and other tribes once traveled these routes through the Lochsa to hunt, fish, and trade—a road through history that tells stories of resilient people and the lands they cherished.

A Sacred Landscape

The Lochsa is the historic lands of the Nez Perce, Kootenai, and Salish tribes. This landscape was not just a passageway; it was sacred ground. Here, throughout the Lolo Trail Corridor, they hunted buffalo, fished for salmon, and lived in harmony with the wild rhythms of the land.

Lewis and Clark on the Lolo Trail

The Lolo Trail, running near the Lochsa River, became a challenging leg of the Lewis and Clark expedition in 1805. This ancient route, used by Indigenous peoples for generations, takes travelers through steep ascents, dense forests, and ever-shifting weather—a journey that still offers glimpses of unspoiled wilderness.

Fish & Wildlife

Wildlife That Call the Lochsa Home

The Lochsa watershed teems with life. Elk, moose, deer, eagles, osprey, and blue herons call this land home, while anglers come to cast for cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and the occasional steelhead. Along the riverbanks, you might catch sight of rare mountain goats or the graceful harlequin duck. One of the great privileges of visiting the Lochsa is seeing these animals in untamed, wild habitat.

Fly Fishing on the Lochsa River

Fishing and Conservation

The Lochsa River isn’t just an angler’s paradise; it’s a lifeline for fish species that thrive in these pristine waters. Conservation efforts, including the nation’s furthest inland fish hatchery, help preserve this habitat and protect these waters for generations to come.

Scenic Landmarks & Points of Interest

Walking Trail through the Devoto Cedar Grove

Lolo Pass Visitor Center

Completed in the early ’60s, Highway 12 connects Lewiston with Missoula via the spectacular Lolo Pass. At the Idaho-Montana border, the Lolo Pass Visitor Center offers exhibits, a cozy bookstore, and the Glade Creek Trail—a mile-long journey through scenic meadows. This is a must visit stop on any journey through the Lochsa.

Lolo Pass Visitor Center »

Hot Springs

Go for a true Western experience in a pine room that opens onto a private deck and is warmed by your own fireplace. Bathroom and shower within the room. Side deck or back deck for a place to sit and relax outside.

View More Details on Hot Springs »

Devoto Cedar Grove

Just 12 miles from Montana, the Devoto Cedar Grove invites you to wander among ancient red cedars on a gentle interpretive trail. This peaceful grove, dedicated to conservationist Bernard DeVoto, offers picnic areas and lovely spots to pause, reflect, and soak up the beauty of the American West.

Devoto Cedar Grove »

The Historic Lochsa Ranger Station

About 48 miles east of Kooskia, Idaho, the Lochsa Historic Ranger Station was once a Forest Service outpost. Today, it’s a place to step back in time and explore early forest management, with shady spots and peaceful surroundings perfect for resting before continuing along Highway 12.

The Historic Lochsa Ranger Station »

The Scenic Lolo Motorway: “500 Road”

For the adventurous at heart, the Lolo Motorway (Forest Road 500) runs along rugged ridgelines, tracing historic paths used by Indigenous people and later by the Corps of Discovery. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, this primitive road offers panoramic views and a taste of Idaho’s wild, untamed spirit.

The Scenic Lolo Motorway: “500 Road »

Activities & Recreation

Hiking, Camping, and Fishing

Surrounding trails, riverside campsites, and prime fishing spots make the Lochsa region a go-to for outdoor lovers of all kinds. Find your pace and enjoy the calm of nature in all its forms.

Whitewater Rafting

With spring snowmelt, the Lochsa River transforms into a whitewater paradise. Known for thrilling rapids and unforgettable views, this river draws seasoned rafters looking for a true Idaho adventure.

All-Season Fun

Whether you’re hiking and fishing in summer or soaking in hot springs come winter, the Lochsa River region offers year-round beauty and adventure. Check out our guides to discover all the ways to explore this unforgettable landscape.

SPRING

SUMMER

FALL

WINTER

The Allure of the Lochsa

More than just a river, the Lochsa is a journey into the past—a place where nature, history, and adventure meet. Whether you’re rafting wild rapids, exploring age-old trails, or basking in the beauty of the Bitterroot Mountains, a visit to the Lochsa is a journey to the heart of the Great Wild West.