Heart of the Monster

Heart of the Monster is 2 mi. e. of Kamiah on US 12. This volcanic rock formation is the place of creation in Nez Perce mythology. Folklore says that in the prehuman years, a monster was devouring the animals. Coyote, the chief animal, slew the monster, cut him into pieces and scattered these bits to the winds. Where each bit landed, a new Native American tribe arose. The Nez Perce tribe came from blood from the monster's heart. East Kamiah is a designated site of Nez Perce National Historical Park. An interpretive display is available.