Weis Rockshelter

Weis Rockshelter

More than 8,000 years ago the ancestors of the Nez Perce first made this rock shelter their home. This small shelter is located near Cottonwood, Idaho and is close to the Salmon River, making it an ideal location because its proximity to major food sources and transportation routes. The shelter is not a cave, but a small niche in a wall of basalt. The shelter was continuously inhabited until about 600 years ago.

From 1961 to 1963, archeological excavations under the direction of Idaho State University archeologist B. Robert Butler were conducted here. These excavations were some of the first professional archeological work ever completed in Nez Perce country.

Last updated: November 6, 2017

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Nez Perce National Historical Park
39063 US Hwy 95

Lapwai, ID 83540-9715

Phone:

208 843-7001

Contact Us