Cities and Towns in Clearwater County, Idaho
Founded in 1911, Clearwater County is one of 44 counties in the state of Idaho. Historically, Clearwater County was formed from Nez Perce County. The city of Orofino is the county seat. With FIPS code of 35, Clearwater County has a population of 8,895 and area of 2,462 square miles (6,377 km²).
List of all cities in Clearwater County, ID alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ahsahka, ID | 83520 | 208 |
| Elk River, ID | 83827 | 208 |
| Greer, ID | 83544 | 208 |
| Headquarters, ID | 83546 | 208 |
| Lenore, ID | 83541 | 208 |
| Orofino, ID | 83544 | 208 |
| Pierce, ID | 83546 | 208 |
| Weippe, ID | 83553 | 208 |
Major Cities and Towns in Clearwater County, Idaho
Orofino
Area and Population
- Area: 2.51 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,142
- Zip Codes: 83544
- Latitude: 46.4799° N
- Longitude: 116.2558° W
Location and History
Orofino is the county seat and largest city in Clearwater County, located along the Clearwater River in north-central Idaho. The town was established in the late 19th century during the Idaho gold rush, and its name, which means “fine gold” in Spanish, reflects its origins as a mining town. Orofino quickly became a hub for gold miners and later developed into a center for logging, with the nearby forests providing a wealth of timber resources. Today, Orofino is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and as a gateway to the Clearwater National Forest. The town’s rich history is evident in its well-preserved historic buildings and its strong connection to the natural environment.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Orofino is served by the Orofino Joint School District, with Orofino High School and Orofino Elementary School being the main educational institutions. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including Dworshak Dam, one of the tallest straight-axis concrete dams in the Western Hemisphere, which creates Dworshak Reservoir, a popular spot for boating, fishing, and camping. The Clearwater Historical Museum offers exhibits on the region’s history, including its mining, logging, and Native American heritage. Additionally, the Orofino City Park, located along the Clearwater River, provides a beautiful setting for picnics, community events, and outdoor activities.
Pierce
Area and Population
- Area: 0.63 square miles
- Population: Approximately 507
- Zip Codes: 83546
- Latitude: 46.4917° N
- Longitude: 115.7979° W
Location and History
Pierce is a small town located northeast of Orofino in Clearwater County, nestled in the foothills of the Bitterroot Mountains. The town was established in 1860 and is historically significant as the site of Idaho’s first gold discovery, which led to the state’s first gold rush. Pierce was named after Elias Davidson Pierce, the prospector who made the initial gold discovery in the area. The town quickly grew as miners flocked to the region, and it served as the county seat until 1880. Today, Pierce is a quiet, rural community with a rich history and access to the natural beauty of the surrounding forests and mountains.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pierce is part of the Orofino Joint School District, with Timberline High School and Timberline Elementary School serving the local population. The town is known for its historical significance and its outdoor recreation opportunities. Notable landmarks include the Pierce Courthouse, Idaho’s oldest public building, which has been preserved as a museum showcasing the town’s early history. The nearby Weippe Prairie offers hiking, birdwatching, and a chance to explore the area where the Lewis and Clark Expedition first encountered the Nez Perce Tribe. Pierce’s historic charm and natural surroundings make it a unique destination in Clearwater County.
Weippe
Area and Population
- Area: 0.50 square miles
- Population: Approximately 413
- Zip Codes: 83553
- Latitude: 46.3786° N
- Longitude: 115.9388° W
Location and History
Weippe is a small town located south of Pierce in Clearwater County, situated on the Weippe Prairie. The town was established in the late 19th century and is historically significant as the site where the Lewis and Clark Expedition first met the Nez Perce Tribe in 1805. Weippe’s name is derived from a Nez Perce word meaning “very old place,” reflecting the long history of the area. The town developed as an agricultural community, with farming and ranching serving as the backbone of its economy. Weippe remains a small, rural town with a strong connection to its history and the surrounding natural landscape.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Weippe is part of the Orofino Joint School District, with students attending Timberline High School and Timberline Elementary School in nearby Pierce. The town is known for its historical significance and its community-oriented events, such as the annual Weippe Camas Festival, which celebrates the area’s history and the importance of the camas plant to the Nez Perce people. Notable landmarks include the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, which offers exhibits on the expedition’s journey through the region, and the Weippe Prairie, a scenic area that provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and exploring the natural beauty of Clearwater County.
Elk River
Area and Population
- Area: 0.34 square miles
- Population: Approximately 125
- Zip Codes: 83827
- Latitude: 46.7822° N
- Longitude: 116.1793° W
Location and History
Elk River is a small town located in the northern part of Clearwater County, surrounded by the Clearwater National Forest. The town was established in the early 20th century as a logging community, with its name reflecting the abundant elk population in the area. Elk River quickly grew as a center for the timber industry, with logging and milling operations providing employment for many residents. The town’s location in the heart of the forest made it a key hub for the transportation of timber. Today, Elk River is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering access to a wide range of recreational activities in the surrounding wilderness.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Elk River is part of the Orofino Joint School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby communities such as Orofino. The town is known for its access to outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, hunting, and snowmobiling. Notable landmarks include the Elk River Falls, a picturesque waterfall that is a popular spot for hiking and photography, and the nearby Dworshak Reservoir, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping. The Elk River Backcountry Byway provides a scenic drive through the area, showcasing the natural beauty and rich wildlife of Clearwater County.