Consisting of 38 sites across Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington, you could spend weeks exploring Nez Perce National Historical Park in its entirety. However, if you have just a day, then that’s okay too! We can think of several parts of the park in Idaho that can be easily seen within a few hours, including Heart of the Monster. This historic site explores the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) creation story and it makes for a fascinating outing in a beautiful part of the Gem State.
Located off of U.S. Highway 12 at mile marker 58, Heart of the Monster is a 53-acre site that's part of Nez Perce National Historical Park. A sacred site to the Nimiipuu people, it's well worth taking your time to see and appreciate it for yourself.
The site is at the center of a Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) creation story. According to the legend, Iceye'ye (Coyote) killed a large monster along the Clearwater River, thus creating different tribes in the region.
The major rock formation at the site is said to represent the literal heart of the monster in the Nimiipuu legend. The site continues to be honored and sacred to the Nimmipuu people and it makes for a breathtaking place to spend a few hours surrounded by Idaho's beauty.
Heart of the Monster is free to visit and is open daily from sunrise to sunset year-round. The site itself consists of an interpretive shelter with two exhibits and an audio program that tells the story of the famous Nimiipuu legend.
A short walking trail leads visitors straight to the Heart of the Monster formation. Restrooms, picnic tables, a water fountain, and RV parking make it an ideal place to enjoy a picnic in the great outdoors of Kooskia, Idaho.
Heart of the Monster is sacred ground for the Nimiipuu, so visitors are asked to take extra care to respect the area. When visiting, please do not climb on any of the rock features. Be sure to take all your trash with you and to pick up after your pets if you bring them. Digging or collecting rocks is not allowed at this site.
Heart of the Monster is as visually stunning as it is informative, making it a great spot for your next family outing. For more information about this historic site, visit the National Park Service website here.
