Visit Looking Glass' 1877 Camp
On July 1st, 1877, Chief Looking Glass' village was attacked near the Middle Fork of the Clearwater River during the Nez Perce Flight. This affiliated site of the Nez Perce National Historical Park tells the story of this pivotal moment in the 1877 conflict.
Getting There
Looking Glass' 1877 Camp is about 3 miles east of Kooskia, Idaho, off U.S. Highway 12. There are two visitor areas: a highway pullout with interpretive signage, and a short trail near the Kooskia National Fish Hatchery.
For the highway pullout, head east from Kooskia on U.S. Highway 12 for 0.7 miles. The pullout will be on your right. For the interpretive trail, follow posted signs to the Kooskia National Fish Hatchery. The trail is located about 1/8 mile before the hatchery and offers a short walk (roughly 0.15 miles each way) along the Middle Fork of the Clearwater River.
What You'll See
The site now includes the Kooskia National Fish Hatchery, which occupies the location where the village once stood. A historical marker at the highway pullout explains the attack on Chief Looking Glass' village. A short hiking trail provides access to the river and allows visitors to walk the landscape where these events unfolded in the summer of 1877.
Understanding the Site
The attack on Looking Glass' Camp on July 1st was a turning point in the Flight. The band, expecting safety at this location, faced a sudden attack from the U.S. Army. This site helps visitors understand the challenges and dangers the nimíipuu faced throughout their journey toward Montana and Canada.