A wooden sign with historical information about the Lewis and Clark Expedition near Weippe. — Historical stop, near Weippe. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

An aerial view of the Clearwater River winding through tree-covered mountains — Clearwater River, near Greer. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

A wooden sign that reads Fraser Park. — Fraser Park, between Fraser and Weippe. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

A painted wooden sign for Deer Creek Reservoir. — Deer Creek Reservoir, near Headquarters. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Three people stand at the end of a dock. — Deer Creek Reservoir, near Headquarters. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

A roadside sign for Gold Rush Historic Byway. — Gold Rush Historic Byway road sign, Weippe. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

A wooden sign for Gold Rush Historic Byway. — Gold Rush Historic Byway signage, near Greer. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Aerial view of Pierce, Idaho. — Town of Pierce. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Exterior of Weippe Discovery Center. — Weippe Discovery Center, Weippe. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Nez Perce artifacts displayed in a museum case. — Exhibits at Weippe Discovery Center, Weippe. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

A map of the Nez Perce Trail made from animal hide. — Exhibits at Weippe Discovery Center, Weippe. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

A welcome sign for the town of Weippe. — Welcome to Weippe sign, Weippe. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Gold Rush Historic Byway

Steeped in mining history with an abundance of scenic views, the Gold Rush Historic Byway showcases the beauty of north central Idaho. On this route, travelers will find panoramic views of the Clearwater Valley, resplendent rolling fields of grain and flourishing forests full of wildlife. Spend time in Pierce, where gold was first found in Idaho, or visit historical sites of the Nez Perce and Lewis and Clark. There’s no shortage of history on this byway.

Length

42.3 miles
68.2 km

Time

1 hour,
5 minutes

Region

North Central

When to Visit

Year-round

Portions of the route may be closed in the winter.

31 Byways. 31 Ways to Be Inspired.

A variety of scenic, natural, historic, recreational, archeological and cultural experiences can be found on Idaho’s 31 scenic byways. View the video to get a taste of the adventures that await you, and start planning your next road trip.

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Road Trip Tips

Turn-by-Turn Directions: The byway begins at the junction of U.S. 12 and Idaho 11 at Greer and continues north until it reaches the small town of Headquarters.

Road Conditions: Roads can be icy during the winter months

Full Services in: Weippe and Pierce

Partial Services in: Greer

Motorcycle Route: Yes, a portion of the route

Full Services: When gas, food and lodging are available

Partial Services: When gas and a few other facilities are available