Highway 14 Corridor
[Larger version of map]
American Indians traveled through the present-day South Fork of the Clearwater River corridor on their seasonal migration from the Camas Prairie in Idaho to the Bitterroot Valley in Montana. The route, known as the southern Nez Perce Trail, was later used by gold miners and homesteaders who flocked to the area in the 1860s.
Today, State Highway 14, which follows the South Fork of the Clearwater River, is the primary travel route through the corridor. This picturesque route winds through the forested canyon with sections of rugged granite outcroppings. From Golden, the countryside changes to gently sloping lodgepole pine-covered uplands and lush meadows which are carpeted with a variety of wildflowers from April through July. An auto tour along the historic Elk City Wagon Road is located in the northern portion of the corridor. Interpretive signs along Highway 14 explain the rich and colorful mining history of the Elk City/Dixie area. The Newsome and Orogrande mining districts can be accessed from Highway 14. Visitors will find hiking, fishing and picnicking opportunities along the way.
General Information
Directions:
From Grangeville, Idaho travel east on Mount Idaho road to the junction with State Highway 14. State Highway 14 ends at Elk City. From Harpster, Idaho travel Highway 13 to its junction with State Highway 14.
Recreation Sites
Blackerby Picnic Area
Bridge Creek Campground
Butter Creek Trailhead
Castle Creek Campground
Crooked River Campground #3
Crooked River Campground #4
Ditch Creek Campground
Dixie Meadow Campground
Driveway Route