Idaho County Wild & Scenic: Middle Fork

The Lochsa and Selway Rivers come together at Lowell, Idaho to form the Middle Fork of the Clearwater River. The first 20 miles of the Middle Fork were designated Wild & Scenic by the U.S. Congress in 1968. The reason for this special designation is outlined in the original Wild & Scenic Rivers Act:

"It is hereby declared to be the policy of the United States that certain selected rivers of the Nation which, with their immediate environments, possess outstandingly remarkable scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and wildlife, historic, cultural or other similar values, shall be preserved in free-flowing condition, and that they and their immediate environments shall be protected for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations."

The Middle Fork possessess all of the above. Lewis and Clark first stumbled upon the Clearwater River in 1805. The local Nez Perce tribe helped the explorers on their journey, teaching them how to make dugout canoes on the banks of the river they called Koos-Koos-Kai-Kai - meaning “clear water” in Niimiipuutimt, the language of the Nez Perce people.

To live along this stretch of the river is a joy and privilege. The fishing is great and the beaches are beautiful. There's an elegant 1.5 story home complete with a vaulted ceiling and plenty of view filled windows currently for sale in the Wild & Scenic corridor. Located at 6807 Highway 12 it's an easy drive to town and a great starting point for unlimimted backcountry adventures. To get a feel for this unique place watch this short video:

The 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2,280 square foot home has an open deck great for entertaining, enjoying the summer sunsets or just watching the river roll by. The parcel consists of over 16 fenced acres ready for horses or cows plus a 30' x 40' two story barn/shop with 12 foot over hangs on three sides, 2 roll up doors and a man door.