A pasture about a half mile northwest of Kamiah is supposedly the location of the mission that Asa and Sarah Smith started in 1839. They stayed only 2 years, and their work in this area was not resumed until 30 years later.
The 1871 First Presbyterian Church is said to be the oldest Native American church in continuous use in Idaho. The Northwest Passage Scenic Byway (US 12) also passes through town. It's considered one of the top 10 motorcycle roads in the nation.