Lewiston (pop. 31,000) enjoys a unique distinction: it is Idaho's only seaport. Ships travel 400 miles up the Columbia River and then the Snake to the junction here with the Clearwater, upstream of which the Snake becomes unnavigable. Along with a central position in the American Northwest, this has made Lewiston into an important shipping hub, with a large population of blue-collar workers to support this industry. But Lewiston's mild climate has also made it a hub for travelers as well.
The original capitol of Idaho Territory, Lewiston has a great deal of history. Lewis and Clarke camped here on their epic voyage of discovery, lending their names to Lewiston and the adjacent Clarkston, across the river in Washington. Located in a pleasant lowland valley at just 736 feet above sea level, there's easy access from Lewiston to both the valleys to the west and scenic Idaho attractions such as Hell's Canyon to the south.
Lewiston is located in northwestern Idaho, on the border with Washington. For more information about Lewiston, please select an area of interest from the buttons on the left.
Use the map to explore the surrounding area, or click here for more information about Lewiston's neighbors, including
Riggins
Grangeville
Kooskia and Kamiah and
Orofino