Visit Lapwai Mission

In 1836, Henry and Eliza Spalding accompanied Marcus and Narcissa Whitman across the Great Plains to open missions in the Pacific Northwest. Spalding selected a spot approximately two miles up Lapwai Creek among the Nez Perce. By the summer, however, Spalding made the decision to relocate his mission because it was too hot and inundated with mosquitoes. In 1838, the mission was moved to the mouth of Lapwai Creek, some five miles away.

This page provides the information you need to plan your visit.

 

Getting to Lapwai Mission

A historical marker with information about the Lapwai Mission is located on the east side of U.S. Highway 95, about 12 miles south of Lewiston, Idaho.

Location

• Latitude/Longitude for Highway Pullout:
  46°25'1.87"N 116°48'9.78"W

Driving to Lapwai Mission

• From Lapwai, Idaho, head north on Main St S toward Birch Ave E. Then take a quick right onto Birch Ave E for 0.2 miles. Then turn left onto U.S. Highway 95 North for 0.8 miles. The highway pullout will be on the right.
• From Lewiston, Idaho, head northwest on 21st St toward 19th Ave. Then Use any lane to turn right onto U.S. Highway 12 East for 8.4 miles. Then continue onto U.S. Highway 95 South for 4.4 miles. The highway pullout will be on the left.

Things to Do at Lapwai Mission

Explore the Site

The Lapwai Mission no longer stands. The exact location of the mission is unknown, only the general location. On the highway pullout off of U.S. Highway 95, there is a historical marker about the impact that missionaries such as Henry Spalding had upon the Nez Perce.

Nearby Amenities

The Lapwai Mission Highway Pullout is located approximately 2.5 miles south of the Nez Perce National Historical Park's visitor center where further information is available.

In addition, the Idaho Department of Commerce has a trip planning website that will help you locate hotels, campgrounds, restaurants, and other amenities near the Lapwai Mission Highway Pullout.