The Lochsa and Selway Rivers come together at Lowell, Idaho to form
the Middle Fork of the Clearwater River. The first 20 miles of the
Middle Fork were designated Wild & Scenic by the U.S. Congress in
1968. The reason for this special designation is outlined in the
original Wild & Scenic Rivers Act:
| "It is hereby declared to be the policy of the United States that certain selected rivers of the Nation which, with their immediate environments, possess outstandingly remarkable scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and wildlife, historic, cultural or other similar values, shall be preserved in free-flowing condition, and that they and their immediate environments shall be protected for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations." |
Lewis and Clark first stumbled upon the Clearwater River in
1805. The local Nez Perce tribe helped the explorers on their journey,
teaching them how to make dugout canoes on the banks of the river they
called Koos-Koos-Kai-Kai - meaning “clear water” in Niimiipuutimt, the language of the Nez Perce people.
To
live along this stretch of the river is a joy and privilege. The
fishing is great and the beaches are beautiful. Excellent whitewater rafting and kayaking as well as access to the largest wilderness area in the lower 48 are just some of the benefits of living here
