Stites, ID

Stites is a tiny, peaceful town tucked deep into the scenic canyon of the South Fork Clearwater River, just a few minutes south of Kooskia along Highway 13. Founded at the turn of the twentieth century as a railroad outpost for nearby mining camps, it has since settled into a quiet, close-knit rural community. The river runs right along the valley floor, giving neighborhood homes scenic canyon views and a relaxed pace of daily life framed by steep hillsides.

ATTRSteve Shook from Moscow, Idaho, USA / CC BY 2.0

Life here revolves around the outdoors, with world-class trout and steelhead fishing, river floating, and quick access to the surrounding national forests for hiking and camping. Because Stites is small and primarily residential, locals make the quick four-mile drive into Kooskia for groceries, schools, and everyday errands before heading back to the quiet of the canyon. If you are looking for a scenic river hideaway with friendly neighbors and nature right in your backyard, Stites offers a truly easygoing lifestyle.