Since time immemorial, the Nimiipuu or Nez Perce have lived among the rivers, canyons and prairies of the inland northwest. Despite the cataclysmic change of the past two centuries, the Nez Perce are still here. Join us in experiencing the story of a people who are still part of this landscape.
Big Hole National Battlefield
Early on the morning of August 8, 1877, soldiers under the command of Colonel John Gibbon unleashed an attack on the quiet camp of Nez Perce. Gibbon's attack was repulsed, but at a great cost to the Nez Perce, making the battle at Big Hole the bloodiest single day in the four month long struggle between certain bands of the Nez Perce, their allies, and the U.S. Army more...
Bear Paw Battlefield
On September 29, 1877 800 men women and children made camp on Snake Creek, forty miles from the Canadian Border. At dawn the next day, the U.S. Army attacked the camp, beginning a siege that would last until October 5, when Chief Joseph ended the siege. This quiet and compelling site is sacred ground for all who fought here and looks much the way it did in 1877. more...
Park Visitor Guide
The park has an activity guide with information on the sites of Nez Perce National Historical Park and Big Hole National Battlefield. Included in the newspaper is the park map and site listing, contact information, and a preview of the Lewis and Clark expedition commemoration in the region. more...
With thirty-eight sites in fours states, every season offers a wide variety of weather conditions. Click on the link below to find out more about daily forecasts at sites around the park. more...
