Pierce, Idaho
Gateway to the Clearwater Backcountry!

Summer Activities
Spring, Summer, Fall - what
a great time to visit the Clearwater Backcountry! The forests
surrounding Pierce are teeming with wildlife and the streams
are brimming with trout, offering the avid hunter, photographer
or fly fisherman many excellent opportunities. There are several
different open seasons for the hunter to bag an animal. From
Turkey and Bear hunting in the spring, to trophy White Bucks
and Bull Elk in the fall, you are sure to not be disappointed.
Check the Idaho Department of Fish and Game regulations
for the current seasons.
The North Fork
of the Clearwater River and its tributaries offer some of the
best West-Slope Cutthroat trout fishing in the West. The crystal
clear waters of renowned "Blue Ribbon" Kelly Creek
and Cayuse Creek beckon the angler to make just one more cast
in pursuit of the "big one". In addition to Cutthroat
Trout, the rivers also contain a native population of Rainbow
trout and Bull trout. Triple "O" Outfitters offers several
backcountry fishing trips. Check the Idaho Department of Fish and Game regulations
for the current seasons, bag and possession limits.
For
the hiking or photography enthusiast, The North Fork River Canyon
offers spectacular scenery and stunning vistas. The U.S. Forest Service - Clearwater National Forest
maintains an excellent system of hiking trails. Many of
the trails lead into the Mallard-Larkins Primitive Area or into
one of the many high mountain lakes that dot the high country.
You can also visit some preserved tracts of Old Growth Timber
such as Walker Park near Headquarters. This Old Growth Stand
of Western Red Cedar and Western White Pine, set aside by Potlatch Corporation showcases trees 10 to
15 feet in diameter and 200 feet tall!
ATV riding has
become a popular sport in the area. There are hundreds of miles
of abandoned logging roads that are only open to vehicles under
48 inches in width. In addition the U.S. Forest Service - Clearwater National Forest
has established some areas exclusively for the ATV enthusiasts.
These areas feature parking areas, loading ramps and marked
trails. One such trail leads to Clarke Mountain Lookout, which
provides you with an awesome view of the North Fork River Canyon
(photo below).
|