There are still those who like to try their luck and do it for a hobby, never really expecting to strike it big, but it wouldn't hurt their feelings if they did before the snow set in. A little color goes a long way to motivate another attempt after the melt. The winters are hard and claims off of wilderness land are hard to come by. There are only a few over four hundred in that part of the country to start with.
If you ever get out that way, it is definitely a wonderous addition to your bucket list. Watching elk or a moose lounging around on one of the forks of the Clearwater river is something you'll never forget. It's got all the perks, but you have to remember it's wild. It is the critters' land and they get touchy at times - especially the bears and occasional cougar. Keep that in mind and you will do just fine. It's worth the adventure!
Reading my e-book "Buffalo Hump" from www.champagnebooks.com or Amazon/Kindle under fiction/suspence/thrillers will help describe the area even more. If you like the woods and you like to read about the Nez Perce kicking some serious blue jeans, this might fill your bill. Check my home page on this site to get your copy on any of the major e-readers today.