Orofino IdahoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Orofino, Idaho.
1. Nez Perce National Historic Trail
HISTORIC NATIVE AMERICAN PATH
The Nez Perce National Historic Trail is one of the most significant historical attractions in Orofino, preserving the route traveled by the Nez Perce tribe during their 1877 flight from U.S. Army forces. Visitors can explore interpretive sites along the trail that tell the story of the Nez Perce people and their struggle to maintain their traditional way of life. The trail offers both historical education and scenic natural beauty spanning across several states but with important segments near Orofino.
2. Clearwater Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Clearwater Historical Museum focuses on the people and history of the Clearwater River Country including Clearwater County and parts of surrounding counties. The museum houses over 4,500 historical photographs and artifacts relating to the Nez Perce people, the Lewis and Clark Expedition, gold mining, early homesteading, farming, and logging. Visitors can gain deep insights into the region's rich cultural and economic development through the museum's extensive collection.
3. Orofino City Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Orofino City Park is a popular recreational area located just 169 meters from downtown Orofino. The park offers visitors a peaceful setting along the Clearwater River with picnic areas, playground equipment, and open spaces for community gatherings. It serves as a central hub for local events and provides a relaxing spot for both residents and tourists to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
4. Rex Theater
HISTORIC CINEMA EXPERIENCE
The Rex Theater is a charming historic cinema located in downtown Orofino, just 129 meters from the city center. This nostalgic venue offers movie screenings in a classic theater setting that has been a part of the community for generations. The theater provides both entertainment and a glimpse into the cultural history of small-town America.
5. Orofino Golf & Country Club
SCENIC RIVERSIDE GOLFING
Orofino Golf & Country Club offers an enjoyable golfing experience with scenic views of the surrounding landscape. The course features well-maintained fairways and greens set against the backdrop of northern Idaho's natural beauty. Golfers of various skill levels can appreciate the challenging yet approachable layout while enjoying the peaceful setting.
6. Pink House Recreation Site
OUTDOOR WATER RECREATION
The Pink House Recreation Site is located approximately 7.6 kilometers from Orofino, offering access to water recreation activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and picnicking along the shores of the Clearwater River. The recreation area provides a tranquil escape where nature enthusiasts can appreciate the region's pristine waterways and surrounding landscape.
7. Big Eddy Recreation Site
RIVER ACCESS POINT
Big Eddy Recreation Site is a popular access point to the Clearwater River near Orofino. The site is frequented by fishing enthusiasts seeking steelhead, salmon, and other fish species that populate the river. Its convenient location and facilities make it an ideal spot for day trips focused on water-based recreation and relaxation.
8. Canoe Camp
LEWIS AND CLARK SITE
Canoe Camp is a significant historical site within the Nez Perce National Historic Park, located about 4.33 miles from downtown Orofino. This location marks where Lewis and Clark's expedition built canoes to continue their journey westward after crossing the arduous Bitterroot Mountains. Visitors can explore interpretive displays that detail this crucial chapter in American exploration history while enjoying views of the Clearwater River.
9. Dining on the Edge
RIVERSIDE CULINARY EXPERIENCE
Dining on the Edge is a popular restaurant in Orofino known for its American cuisine and gluten-free options. The restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with views overlooking the beautiful Clearwater River. Patrons appreciate both the quality food and the unique atmosphere that showcases the natural beauty of the area.
10. Fiesta En Jalisco
AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE
Fiesta En Jalisco is a beloved Mexican restaurant in Orofino that serves authentic dishes in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant offers a diverse menu that caters to various preferences, including vegetarian-friendly options that have earned positive reviews from visitors. It has become a local favorite for those seeking flavorful Mexican cuisine in north central Idaho.
11. Ronatta's Cakery
ARTISANAL BAKERY DESTINATION
Ronatta's Cakery is a charming dessert shop in Orofino specializing in freshly baked goods and American treats. The bakery has gained popularity for its quality creations that satisfy the sweet cravings of both locals and tourists. Visitors appreciate the friendly service and homemade quality that makes this spot a must-visit for dessert enthusiasts.
12. Clearwater River Casino & Lodge
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
The Clearwater River Casino & Lodge is located approximately 50.2 kilometers from Orofino in Nez Perce County. This entertainment destination offers gaming options, dining experiences, and comfortable lodging for visitors looking to extend their stay in the region. The facility provides a modern contrast to the area's historical and natural attractions while showcasing elements of Nez Perce tribal culture.
13. Weippe Prairie
HISTORIC LEWIS AND CLARK MEADOW
Weippe Prairie is a historically significant location approximately 17.9 miles from Orofino where the Lewis and Clark expedition first encountered the Nez Perce tribe in 1805. The prairie features camas flowers that bloom in spring and summer, which were an important food source for Native Americans in the region. Visitors can explore interpretive signs that detail the cultural and historical importance of this meeting place that changed the course of the expedition.
14. Hearthstone Lodge
RUSTIC HIGHWAY ACCOMMODATION
Hearthstone Lodge is a welcoming accommodation option located along U.S. Highway 12 in nearby Kamiah. The lodge offers travelers a comfortable place to stay while exploring the attractions of north central Idaho including the Lewis and Clark Trail. Its strategic location makes it a convenient base for visitors interested in both the natural and historical features of the region.
15. Dworshak Dam Visitor Center
ENGINEERING MARVEL VIEWPOINT
The Dworshak Dam Visitor Center provides information about one of the highest straight-axis concrete dams in the United States, standing at 717 feet tall. Visitors can learn about the dam's construction, its role in flood control, hydroelectric power generation, and its impact on the regional ecosystem and recreation. The center offers impressive views of the massive structure and Dworshak Reservoir, which extends 53 miles upstream on the North Fork of the Clearwater River.