Nature and Science

The Nez Perce National Historic Trail ranges from the deeply incised Columbia River Plateau, across the Continental Divide and a succession of ranges, canyons, and valleys, through forests and plains, across thermal areas and major rivers. The Trail winds through some of the most rugged and spectacular scenery in western America. It traverses some of the largest undisturbed tracts of sagebrush steppe habitat, and a tremendous variety of wildlife and plant species thrive across the varied habitats of the Trail corridor.

The Nez Perce National Historic Trail supports relatively unaltered and increasingly uncommon native habitats, the quality and extent of which are unequaled in the Pacific Northwest and Great Plains. Because of the variety of terrestrial and aquatic habitats across this range, there exists a tremendous variety of plant and animal species along the Trail.

Nature's Supermarket

The Nez Perce were resourceful generally utilizing the entire plant for different purposes. Timber harvest, livestock grazing, and other kinds of use may alter the pristine occurrence of much of the flora.

By documenting the existence of flora used by prehistoric people within the context of their environment it becomes easier to understand the dynamics of their culture, and to predict where significant cultural remains exist.

It is my hope that the presentation here will lead all of you to acquire a greater understanding and appreciation for the plants that have been used throughout time by the Nez Perce. The goal is to educate the public in order to gain their help in protection and preservation of plants, and to pass this part of Nez Perce culture on to future generations of Nez Perce through documentation.

Wildlife Along the Trail

Learn more about the animal species that live in the habitat surrounding the Nez Perce National Historic Trail.