Spalding Walking Tour

Mission chimney stones

This winter home of the Nez Perce dates back 11,00 years prior to contact with Europeans. Remanants of the mission Henry Spalding and his wife Eliza lived and worked in the 1830's remain. See the Indian Agents Cabin from the reservation period built in 1862.
Being the location of many "firsts" in the State of Idaho: printing press, grist mill, saw mill, it was set aside as a state park. Due to its cultural significance it was expanded to National Park status in 1965.
Set along the shores of the Snake River it is easy to see why so many have settled here in the past.

Details

Duration

30-90 Minutes

Activity

Self-Guided Tours - Walking

Hikiing on short grassy trails over several layers of history, see the mercantile; Watsons Store, the Indian Agents Cabin and the Spalding mission site. The first home settled in the State of Idaho. From April to June enjoy the Great Blue Heron rookery along the river.
Beautiful tree covered park with historic buildings and cemetary.

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Pets allowed on trails and in park on leash. No pets allowed in the cemetary.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Spalding Mission Site

Nez Perce National Historic Park picnic area, conjunction of the Snake River and Lapwai Creek. Large park with shade trees three miles north of Lapwai and ten miles east of Lewiston, ID on highway 95.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Restrooms closed from October to April, Porta potty is available at that time.

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

Hiking trails are uneven mowed grassy trails along the river. Watsons Store, Indian Agents House are viewable from the road as is the gravesite of Reverand Henry Spalding and his wife Eliza. 
Restrooms in the picnic area closed from October to late April with porta potty's available.