Family Vacations and Outdoor Recreation
In the Pacific Northwest
- State-of-the-art visitor centers and museums that bring alive the epic adventure
- National and state parks for that Perfect Vacation
- Pristine lakes and rivers for fishing, skiing and boating
- Spectacular ocean beaches
- Miles and miles of scenic hiking trails
- Native American cultural centers and events
“Catch the Spirit” with a Lewis and Clark adventure!
Scroll down the page to view a comprehensive listing of must-see attractions along the Pacific Northwest portion of the Lewis and Clark trail.
Montana
1. Sidney, MT
On MT 200. MonDak Heritage Center and Museum, the Fairview Walking Bridge over the Yellowstone River and the Cartwright Railroad Tunnel. MissouriRiverMT.com
2. Glendive, MT
On I-94 features Makoshika State Park, Montana’s largest state park. Visitors can also enjoy the Frontier Gateway Museum. FWP.MT.gov/stateparks/makoshika.
3. Miles City, MT
On I-94. 1880’s era Main Street, the Range Riders Museum, a 1900’s-era saloon, the annual Bucking Horse Sale and Rodeo, art galleries and activities that focus on Montana’s Cowboy Heritage. VisitMT.com
Montana's Missouri River Country
4. Jordan, MT
West of Circle on MT 200. Jordan features the Garfield County Museum and the Hell Creek Recreation Area on Fort Peck Lake.
5. Circle, MT
Northwest of Glendive on MT 200 en route to Glendive. Home to the McCone County Museum.
6. Culbertson, MT
On US 2. Features the Culbertson Museum. A Lewis and Clark Trail Interpretive Site is on MT 16.
7. Wolf Point, MT
On US 2. Fort Peck Indian Reservation, Wolf Point Area Museum plus the Wild Horse Stampede, one of the West’s most exciting rodeos.
8. Fort Peck, MT
South of US 2 on MT 117. Includes the Fort Peck Dam and Lake, Fort Peck Interpretive Center, the Lewis and Clark Outlook and the Milk River Observation Point. The Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge is along the shores of this huge Missouri River Reservoir. MissouriRiverMT.com
9. Glasgow, MT
On US 2. Includes the Valley County Pioneer Museum and the Children’s Museum of Northeast Montana with its World Wildlife Exhibit.
10. Malta, MT
On US 2. Includes the Great Plains Dinosaur Museum and the Phillips County Museum on the Montana Dinosaur Trail.
11. Zortman, MT
South of the Malta on US 191. Zortman was a Gold Rush town where today’s visitors can pan for gold. The area also includes the Little Rocky Mountains and the UL Bend National Wildlife Refuge.
For information, go to MissouriRiverMT.com
12. Bear Paw Battlefield, MT
On MT 240 south of Chinook. This historic site commemorates the final conflict of the Nez Perce War and Flight of 1877 and is a key stop along the Nez Perce (Nimiipuu) National Historic Trail. A historical marker and trail system are at the site where approximately 800 Nez Perce ceased their fight after a five-day battle.
13. Havre, MT
On US 2. Includ4es the 10,000-acre Beaver Creek Park, Fresno Reservoir, Havre Beneath the Streets, Wahkpa Chu’gn Buffalo Jump and Fort Assinniboine. CentralMontana.com
14. Fort Benton, MT
On US 87. A National Historic Landmark City and gateway to the Upper Missouri Breaks National Monument. Fort Benton also includes the Museum of the Upper Missouri, a reconstructed Old Fort Benton, the Starr Gallery of Western Art, and a river levee trail with sculptures and interpretive panels with Nez Perce (Nimiipuu) National Historic Trail history. CentralMontana.com
Western Montana's Glacier Country
15. Cut Bank, MT
On US 2. Near the eastern boundary of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation and the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s Two Medicine Fight Site—the first military conflict between the United States and a Plains Tribe, and the only violent encounter between the expedition and American Indians on the journey. Note: The site is private property within the reservation and requires permission for access. Cut Bank hosts the annual Lewis and Clark Festival each July.
16. Browning, MT
On US 2. The largest community within the Blackfeet Indian Reservation and home to the Museum of the Plains Indian, which highlights indigenous art, culture, and history of the Northern Plains. Each July, Browning celebrates North American Indian Days with a vibrant powwow and rodeo.
17. East Glacier Park, MT
On US 2. A small town at Glacier National Park’s eastern entrance, near landscapes explored and documented by the Lewis and Clark Expedition as they traveled along the Rocky Mountain Front. Home of historic Glacier Park Lodge.
18. Kalispell, MT
On US 2 and US 93. A historic Flathead Valley hub with deep roots in early settlement and trade. Highlights include the Conrad Mansion Museum and the Northwest Montana History Museum, offering insight into regional history shaped by exploration, travel routes, and commerce.
19. Flathead Lake State Parks
Encircled by US 93, MT 82, and MT 35. While not direct expedition sites, these parks showcase the vast landscapes encountered by early explorers traveling through Western Montana. State parks include West Shore, Big Arm, Finley Point, Wild Horse Island, Yellow Bay, and Wayfarers. FWP.MT.gov/stateparks
For more information go to GlacierMT.com
20. Great Falls
On I-15/US 87. The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center is a major stop on the entire length of the Trail. The Center also includes the Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage Foundation office and its extensive historical library. Passing through the five falls of the Missouri River was back-breaking work for the Corps that took a month to complete. Today, four of the falls can be enjoyed along the walkways and overlooks through the heart of the city. Visitors can see the world’s largest freshwater springs at Giant Springs State Park. The C.M. Russell Museum Complex features the works of America’s famous cowboy artist Charlie Russell. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is west off I-15 and offers a great view of the Missouri River Valley. CentralMontana.com FWP.MT.gov/first-peoples-buffalo-jump
Southwest Montana
21. Gates of the Mountains
North of Helena on I-15. Today’s travelers can board a tour boat to relive the Corps’ voyage through the Missouri River Canyon with 1,200-foot-high cliffs named by Meriwether Lewis. SouthwestMT.com
22. Helena, MT
On I-15. Montana’s capitol city traces its story to the 1864 discovery of gold at Last Chance Gulch. The capitol dome is covered with copper, and the Main Street is still known as Last Chance Gulch. The Great Northern Town Center features the classic Great Northern Carousel and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Experience. The Montana Heritage Center features the Homeland Gallery of Montana’s history, children’s interactive exhibit, CM Russell Gallery, and rotating art exhibits. The Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest is to the northeast. Helena is a Gateway Community to the Continental Divide. SouthwestMT.com
23. Missoula, MT
On I-90/U.S. 93. On US 93. The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula provides additional context on Indigenous history, early military presence, and western expansion. The town features nine historic districts, live theatre, and music venues, shopping, the Montana Museum of Art and Culture, the Missoula Art Museum, and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Center. Caras Park in downtown Missoula features kayakers paddling Brennan’s Wave on the Clark Fork River. GlacierMT.com
24. Lolo
On US 12. The Corps headed north to Travelers’ Rest, near present-day Lolo, arriving on September 9, 1805. Travelers’ Rest State Park is a state park and a National Historic Monument. This location was discovered to be used as a campsite by the Lewis and Clark Expedition on their way to the Pacific Ocean, and on their return journey. Today the park features a visitor center, displays, kids’ activities, hiking trails, and picnic tables. FWP.MT.gov/travelers-rest GlacierMT.com
25. Hamilton, MT
On US 93. Hamilton is in the Bitterroot Valley, a key corridor traveled by the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Near Hamilton, the Daly Mansion offers insight into Montana’s post-expedition settlement era and the growth that followed early exploration.
GlacierMT.com
26. Sula (Ross’ Hole)
Going north from Lemhi Pass, Lewis and Clark rode out of the rugged mountain ridges and deep valleys and dropped down into the Bitterroot Valley to a place known as called Ross’s Hole, which is today at Sula. GlacierMT.com
27. Big Hole National Battlefield
On MT 43 north of Bannack near Wisdom on the Nez Perce (Nimiipuu) National Historic Trail. This historic site is a major stop within the Nez Perce National Historic Park with a memorial to the Nez Perce who fought the U.S. Calvary during their epic attempt to flee to Canada.
28. Dillon, MT
On I-15. Lewis and Clark met with the Shoshone Indians at Camp Fortunate, now submerged under the Clark Canyon Reservoir, 20 miles south of Dillon. Clark’s Lookout State Park and the Lemhi Pass National Historical Landmark chronicles the Corps of Discovery events that occurred in 1805. Nearby Bannack State Park is a National Historic Landmark and the site of Montana’s first Gold Rush in 1862. Today, the park is a well- preserved ghost town with a visitor center and tours. FWP.MT.gov/bannack
30. Nevada City and Virginia City
On MT 287 are popular ghost towns that feature gift shops, museums, music halls, train rides and living history programs. Trail travelers can journey off the Trail and take US 287 from Three Forks or US 191 from Belgrade to connect with the West Yellowstone entrance to Yellowstone National Park. US 89 from Livingston leads to the north entrance at Gardiner. The spectacular US 212 Beartooth Highway All-American Road from Red Lodge leads to the Park’s northeast entrance near Cooke City and Silver Gate. SouthwestMT.com
For more information, go to SouthwestMT.com
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Montana's Yellowstone Country
31. Three Forks
Off I-90 at MT Highway 2. Missouri Headwaters State Park, where the confluence of the Jefferson, Gallatin and Madison Rivers join to form the Missouri River, features interpretive signage, hiking trails, and scenic views of one of the expedition’s campsites. The Headwaters Heritage Museum in neighboring Three Forks exhibits Native American artifacts and local history. Just down the road near Logan, visit Madison Buffalo Jump State Park, where American Indians stampeded herds of bison off the limestone cliff for food, clothing, shelter, and provisions. FWP.MT.gov/stateparks VisitYellowstoneCountry.com
32. Bozeman
On I-90. A lively college town brimming with great restaurants, shopping, art galleries, live music, and exceptional outdoor recreation. The Museum of the Rockies features one of the most important collections of dinosaur fossils in North America.
VisitYellowstoneCountry.com
33. West Yellowstone
U.S. Hwy 20. Located at the West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park, this lively town makes a great basecamp. Don’t miss the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, a wildlife sanctuary, or the Museum of the Yellowstone, which offers travelers a glimpse into Yellowstone’s history.
34. Gardiner
U.S. Hwy. 89. Known for the iconic Roosevelt Arch into Yellowstone, Gardiner is also home to the Yellowstone National Park Heritage and Research Center, and the Albright Visitor Center and the Museum in Mammoth Hot Springs, that is just a short jaunt from town.
35. Livingston
North of Gardiner on I-90 and U.S. 89. An eclectic mix of artists, writers, outdoor recreationalists and entrepreneurs, Livingston is a historic stop full of great dining and shopping. Stop into the Yellowstone Gateway Museum and the Livingston Depot to learn more about this railroad town that was the gateway to Yellowstone.
36. Big Timber
On I-90. On I-90. Once the biggest exporter of wool in the U.S., Big Timber is still home to both agricultural and guest ranches. The Crazy Mountain Museum showcases the area’s history, and the nearby Greycliff Prairie Dog Town State Park is a fun side trip to see these native animals in action.
37. Red Lodge
On US 212. Located at the base of the iconic Beartooth All-American Highway, Red Lodge is a quintessential mountain town. Red Lodge Mountain is a family-friendly ski area just outside of town, and the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary and Carbon County Museum are also must-see stops.
For more information: VisitYellowstoneCountry.com
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Billings, Montana
38. Billings
At the junction of I-90 and I-94. Billings is the perfect basecamp for exploring the Lewis & Clark corridor and more—packed with great food, local brews, comfortable lodging, and can’t-miss attractions like the Western Heritage Center, Yellowstone Art Museum, and ZooMontana. Just southeast of town is the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping options. Plan your route, stay, and must-dos at VisitBillings.com.
Pompeys Pillar National Monument
East on I-94. See Captain William Clark’s signature and date (July 25, 1806), one of the few remaining visible pieces of physical evidence from the Lewis & Clark journey. Visitors can walk the interpretive trail to the pillar, explore exhibits on the Corps of Discovery and regional history, and take in sweeping views of the Yellowstone River valley from the overlook.
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
Southeast on I-90. A powerful place of remembrance and learning, the monument preserves the site of the June 1876 battle fought between the U.S. Army’s 7th Cavalry and a coalition of Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors. Visitors can explore a visitor center and museum, then follow the 4.5-mile self-guided tour road with interpretive stops across key locations – including Last Stand Hill, the Indian Memorial, and the Reno-Benteen Battlefield. The landscape is marked with memorials and grave markers that help visitors understand the scale and significance of the event, and the adjacent Custer National Cemetery adds another reflective layer to the experience. Ranger programs are offered seasonally, and the site provides meaningful context on the battle’s lasting impact and continuing cultural importance. nps.gov/libi
For more information go to: VisitBillings.com
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Idaho
39. Lolo Pass Visitor Center & Rest Area
US 12. This all-log visitor center features displays with information on the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and on the 1877 flight of the Nez Perce (Nimiipuu).
49. The Northwest Passage Scenic Byway
US 12. This byway closely follows the path the Lewis and Clark Expedition took from Lolo Pass to Lewiston through Nez Perce (Nimiipuu) country. The Corps’ survival depended on the help they received from the Nimiipuu people they formed a bond of friendship.
41. Kooskia
On US 12. Kooskia is known as North Central Idaho’s Gateway to the Wilderness. It was at Kooskia (Kooskooskia) that the Corps of Discovery came down the Middle Fork of the Clearwater River to the mouth of the South Fork of the Clearwater River. Here, they crossed the river into the Main current of the Clearwater. In their journals, the crossing is called the “Kooskooskia Crossing.” The Kooskia Crossing Kiosk is at the junction of Highway 12 and State Highway 13. Panels describe salmon and steelhead migration, the Nez Perce Indians, the Nez Perce War of 1877, and the Nez Perce Historical Park. In downtown Kooskia, a 70-foot mural on the side of the grocery store depicts the Lewis & Clark Expedition meeting with a group of Nez Perce. Continuing north on US 12 is The Heart of the Monster Monument, which is a key site in the Nez Perce culture.
42. Kamiah
On US 12. This beautiful mountain valley was the site of the Lewis and Clark Long Camp where they camped for two weeks in 1806. Today, it’s a great base camp for float trips, hiking, fishing, or enjoying a picnic beside the historic Clearwater River at Riverfront Park. The Kamiah Welcome Center is a great place to visit and has an extensive Lewis & Clark Corps of Discovery display. Fun events include the Chief Lookingglass Pow-Wow in August, and the Annual Kamiah BBQ Days in late August. KamiahChamber.com
43. Weippe
Visitors can exit to US 12 to ID 11 to see the Weippe Prairie where the Lewis and Clark expedition first met the Nez Perce people in 1805. The Weippe Discovery Center shares this history with interactive exhibits and hand painted murals depicting events in the expedition’s journals.
44. Orofino
US 12. Visit the Clearwater Historical Museum featuring displays and artifacts related to the Nez Perce and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Just outside of town is the site of The Corps’ fall 1805 Canoe Camp where they rested and learned from the Nez Perce how to carve out the canoes they would need for their westward journey to the Pacific Ocean.
45. Spalding
US 12. Home of The Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center that displays and preserves the history and culture of the Nez Perce (Nimiipuu) Nation with an outstanding collection of clothing, tools, weapons, and ceremonial objects. Visit the outdoor interpretive trail with the history of the 1877 war and flight of the Nez Perce.
46. Lewiston, ID and Clarkston, WA
On US 12. At the confluence of the Clearwater and Snake Rivers are Lewiston, Idaho and Clarkson, Washington, towns named for the famous explorers. The Confluence Center is located along the levee path in Lewiston with a historical marker for the October 10, 1805, campsite of the expedition. Nearby are several open-air interpretive displays, including a dugout canoe. The Lewis and Clark Discovery Center at Hells Gate State Park features indoor and outdoor displays and a film describing the Expedition’s journey through Idaho. The park is also the gateway to Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest river gorge, filled with scenic vistas, wildlife, and historic tales of the Nez Perce people, miners, and ranchers. VisitLCValley.com
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Washington
47. Spokane
US 195. Spokane is Washington’s second largest city. Riverfront Park includes a series of walking bridges and scenic trails connecting both sides of the river. The park features a classic 1909 carousel, a 650-foot skate ribbon, and a skyride over Spokane Falls. The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (“MAC”) has an extensive collection of the art and history of the area’s Indigenous peoples and the pioneers.
49. Pomeroy
On US 12. Visitors can enjoy fishing and hunting in the Blue Mountains and go deep into the basalt canyons of the Weneha-Tucannon Wilderness Area where wildlife roams.
49. Dayton
South of Pomeroy on US 12. Lewis and Clark Trail State Park sits between Dayton and Waitsburg, on the Touchet River. The park offers camping, interpretive trails and markers and fishing access. The Patit Creek Campsite east of Dayton re-creates the Corps’ campsite from May 2, 1806, with life-size metal silhouette sculptures of every member of the expedition and historical signs.
50. Walla Walla
Near US 12. Walla Walla features the Fort Walla Walla Museum in Fort Walla Walla Park and Pioneer Village Park, one of 18 parks in the community. The museum features a pioneer village and five buildings filled with exhibits including a life size diorama of Lewis & Clark exchanging gifts with Yellept, a leader of the Wallulapum or Walla Walla people, plus a related exhibit featuring the chain of translation with original period artifacts. Nearby is the Whitman Mission National Historic Site which offers details about the impact of the western expansion of the United States on the Homeland Tribes. All sites are in the picturesque Walla Walla Valley which offers miles of paved and gravel roads framed by acres of vineyards. With more than 130 wineries calling the area home, Walla Walla’s historic and walkable downtown features tasting rooms with world-class wines along with unique restaurants, art galleries, boutiques, and cultural events. WallaWalla.org
51. Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco
On I-182. The Tri-Cities are nestled where the Columbia, Snake and Yakima rivers come together, offering scenic views, vibrant wine country and rich history along the Lewis and Clark Trail. The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Overlook in Richland provides panoramic views of Bateman Island, visited by William Clark in 1805. Sacajawea State Park and Interpretive Center in Pasco features exhibits on Sacajawea, the Expedition and Native American history. The 23-mile riverfront Sacajawea Heritage Trail connects the three communities. The East Benton County Historical Museum and the Franklin County Historical Museum share stories of early pioneers, aviation, and railroad history. The REACH Museum highlights the region’s cultural and natural heritage, including its role in the Manhattan Project. Visitors enjoy award-winning wineries, craft breweries, local dining, and year-round events throughout this dynamic destination. VisitTri-Cities.com
52. The Columbia River Gorge
On SR 14. The Columbia River Gorge is the largest national scenic area in the U.S. The river has been tamed since its prehistoric days by a series of dams. The river views are spectacular along SR 14 with an array of parks offering outdoor recreation along the way.
53. Goldendale
On SR 142. Get a close-up view of the night skies at the Goldendale Observatory State Park.
54. Columbia Hills State Park
On SR 14. This state park with a 7,500-foot shoreline on the Columbia River includes Horsethief Lake, which is a National Historic Site. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, non-motorized boating, freshwater fishing, and wildlife viewing.
55. White Salmon
On SR 14. Discover wine-tasting rooms, an award-winning brewery, a beloved bakery, and casual to fine dining featuring locally grown food and wine. Wind sports launch areas are nearby on the Northshore of the Columbia River.
56. Beacon Rock State Park
On SR 14. The park offers hiking, interpretive trails and markers, camping, boating, and a trail to the top of Beacon Rock. It was here that the Corps of Discovery first felt the tidal forces of the ocean on their dugout canoes.
57. Washougal
On SR 14. Trail travelers will enjoy discovering Washougal, Washington’s “Gateway to the Gorge.” The perfect place to enjoy gorgeous views of the river and Mt. Hood, open grassy spaces, sandy beach access to the river, interpretive signage, picnic shelters, restrooms, and easy parking. The Lewis and Clark Heritage Trail — also known as the Dike Trail — is a multi-use trail paralleling the Columbia River. On the east end of the trail lies Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge, perfect for spotting local wildlife year-round. Midway along the trail is Captain William Clark Regional Park at Cottonwood Beach, the only park in the U.S. named in his honor. Replicas of Lewis and Clark’s dugout canoes, along with Chinookan canoes, help visitors imagine when the Corps of Discovery stopped here in spring of 1806 to camp and “stock the pantry,” loading their canoes with dried elk, bear, and deer meat for their return trip home. Nearby Steamboat Landing Park invites strolling and fishing on a floating walkway. Further west is the Washougal Waterfront Park, featuring a non-motorized kayak/canoe launch, ADA-accessible paths, picnic areas, solar powered restrooms, and a playground. A pedestrian tunnel passes under SR-14 and connects the Dike Trail to Washougal’s downtown area. Travelers can experience a world-famous tour at Pendleton Woolen Mills Factory, visit Two Rivers Heritage Museum for more history and maps of local art and architecture, or visit Captain Meriwether Lewis’s waterdog sculpture, Seaman, near the Campanile in Reflection Plaza. Award-winning breweries and dining establishments welcome hungry and thirsty travelers. VisitWashougal.com
58. Camas
On Lewis & Clark Highway/WA-14. Historic Downtown Camas offers a charming, elevated “downtown experience” with tree-lined streets, fun boutique shopping, and a wide variety of delicious dining options. Camas can be a comfortable “home base” for those visiting Portland, Vancouver, and the Columbia River Gorge. Visitors can enjoy themed events and after-hours shopping on the First Friday of every month and don’t forget to look for the hidden bronze birds while enjoying downtown! Celebrate creativity at the Attic Gallery, Gallery 408, and the RedDoor Gallery, and in colorful murals by local artists. Catch a first run movie at historic Liberty Theatre and relax at the beautifully restored Camas Hotel. The Camas area also offers great outdoor recreation with kayaking on Lacamas Lake, enjoying a relaxing picnic and stroll at nearby Heritage Park, or hiking, biking, or walking along the scenic Lacamas Heritage Trail. DowntownCamas.com
59. Vancouver
On I-5. Explore rich history at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. Vancouver’s vibrant waterfront on the Columbia River beckons with recreational options, wine tasting, and dining, ensuring a delightful array of activities for all. VisitVancouverWA.com
60. Kelso
On I-5. The Trail continues north along the Columbia River on Interstate 5 to Kelso, then heads west on SR 4 to Skamokawa Vista Park. It was near the present-day park, downriver from Pillar Rock, where Clark wrote in his journal, “Great joy in camp. we are in View of the Ocian.”
61. Chinook
On 101. The Corps found safe haven at Lewis and Clark Campsite (Station Camp) near today’s Dismal Nitch Rest Area and the Astoria-Megler Bridge. The site served as a base camp from November 15 to 24, 1805, when both Lewis and Clark led separate groups overland to view the Pacific Ocean near today’s Dismal Nitch Rest Area and the Astoria-Megler Bridge.
62. Cape Disappointment State Park
On SR 100. The park is the location of the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. The Center’s mural displays guide visitors through the Corps’ entire journey with mural displays of sketches, paintings, photographs, artifacts, and quotes from Corps members. The center also offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the Columbia River, and the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse.
63. Long Beach
On US 101 and SR 103. The Long Beach Peninsula is Washington’s hidden treasure with 28 miles of ocean beach vistas. Visitors can enjoy ocean views, interpretive markers, and sculptures.
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Oregon
64. Astoria and Warrenton
On US 30 and 101. Astoria and Warrenton sit along the southern shore of the Columbia River where it meets the Pacific Ocean. The Astoria-Megler Bridge is the longest continuous truss bridge in North America. Astoria is the oldest permanent U.S. settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. The Astoria Column, atop Coxcomb Hill, commemorates the region’s history and natural resources. Astoria and Warrenton offer a wide range of museums, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions, with access to nearby coastal parks and recreation areas. Astoria’s historic downtown features galleries, boutiques, and a diverse dining scene. TravelAstoria.com
65. Fort Clatsop
US 101/26. Symbolically, visitors can begin their journey at the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park at Fort Clatsop near the mouth of Columbia River. The small log stockade has been re-created as it was when the Corps of Discovery built it and wintered there from December 7, 1805, to March 23, 1806. The National Park Service operates an Interpretive Center, Exhibit Hall, Trails Network, and Gift Shop. NPS.gov/lewi/index.htm
66. Seaside
On US 101. Located 16 miles south of Astoria. Visitors enjoy Seaside’s oceanfront Promenade, expansive beach, and walkable downtown filled with shops, dining, and family-friendly attractions. Seaside is also the location of “The Salt Works” historic site where the Corps of Discovery made salt for the winter and for their return journey back home.
67. Cannon Beach
On US 101. Home of the iconic natural landmark Haystack Rock, where during low tide visitors can explore tide pools, view marine wildlife, and observe nesting seabirds. Cannon Beach has been named one of America’s 100 Best Art Towns, with galleries, courtyards, and public art throughout the village. CannonBeach.org
Just north of Cannon Beach is Ecola State Park that offers access to scenic viewpoints and trails connected to the Corps of Discovery, including the route taken by members who traveled to view a beached whale. From these headlands, Clark described the landscape as “…the grandest and most pleasing prospects which my eyes ever surveyed.”
68. Portland
On I-84 and I-5. One of the Pacific Northwest’s great gateway cities with colorful festivals and year-round events, wildwood trails in Forest Park, the International Rose Test Garden, fertile orchards to the south and west, and the ever-present view of snowcapped Mount Hood.
69. Historic Columbia River Scenic Byway
On I-84 east of Portland. Visitors can take Exit 17 off I-84 to Troutdale, then drive to the Sandy River where the Corps of Discovery camped in The Chanticleer Point scenic overlook provides a great view of the Columbia River Gorge. The route continues to historic Vista House at Crown Point. Built as a memorial to the pioneers, it offers an inspiring view of the Columbia Gorge and the mountains of the Cascade Range.
70. Bonneville
On I-84. The Historic Byway joins I-84 at Dodson while passing near Oneonta Gorge, a botanical paradise. The Bonneville Lock and Dam visitor center offers visitors the chance to look through underwater windows at Chinook and Coho Salmon jump their way up fish ladders each fall.
71. Hood River
On I-84. Hood River is a good place to see the Columbia River Gorge’s breathtaking waterfalls, or for a closer look at Mt. Hood by exiting I-84 to SR 35 and US 26 on the Mt. Hood Scenic Byway. The Hood River Waterfront Park and the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum at the Municipal Airport add diversity of things to see and do.
72. The Dalles
On I-84. When Lewis and Clark arrived in 1805, they found one of the Pacific Northwest’s most important trading centers, shaped by the Columbia River and thousands of years of Native American history. Today, that same river defines this vibrant community where history isn’t polished, it’s lived. At the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, trace the Corps of Discovery’s journey alongside 10,000 years of Native heritage, the Gold Rush, and early Wasco County life. Take in sweeping Gorge views, riverside trails, and open skies much like those the expedition described. Downtown, explore 35 vibrant murals, tour the 1880s Fort Dalles Museum and the Original Wasco County Courthouse, and visit The Dalles Dam Visitor Center. Relax at Riverfront Park, a premier launch for water sports, picnicking, and birdwatching. Complete your visit with award-winning wineries, craft breweries, and a local distillery. In The Dalles, you don’t just learn the story, you step into it. ExploreTheDalles.com
73. Arlington
On I-84. Vacationers can venture off the Trail south of Arlington to enjoy the Blue Mountain and Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byways.
74. Umatilla
On I-84. The Pacific Salmon Visitor Information Center is east of Umatilla at McNary Lock and Dam. The dam created Lake Wallula where anglers can fish for walleye, bass, and sturgeon.
75. Pendleton
On I-84. Visitors can enjoy the world-famous Pendleton Round-Up rodeo each September. East of Pendleton is the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute, one of two tribally owned museums on the trail in the Pacific Northwest region. The museum provides fascinating exhibits and programs on the history and culture of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla people.
76. La Grande
On I-84. The Grande Tour Route and Scenic Bikeway takes visitors to the beautiful Grand Ronde (big, round) valley located between the Elkhorn, Blue and other 10,000-foot peaks of the Wallowa Mountains.
77. The Hells Canyon Scenic Byway
The Byway crosses the Grande Ronde Valley and links with SR 82. Visitors can follow the 208-mile loop around the Wallowa Mountains. As travelers drive along this amazing byway they will come upon the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. Joseph, Oregon is the beginning of the Nez Perce (Nimiipuu) National Historic Trail.
78. Baker City
On I-84. Baker City is the home to the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center that offers the definitive Oregon Trail experience with life-size displays, living history demonstrations, films, live theater, and events. Visitors can also board a vintage steam train on the Sumpter Valley Railroad.
79. Ontario
O I-84. Nestled where the locals describe “Treasure Valley,” Ontario is at the convergence of four rivers: the Snake, Malheur, Owyhee, and Payette. The Four Rivers Cultural Center and Museum celebrates the area’s history and the cultures of Native Americans, Basque, European, Japanese, and Hispanic settlers. Ontario features six shopping areas including the historic downtown offering tax-free shopping. The area also offers year-round road biking and outdoor recreation, including the Owyhee Reservoir and Dam, and Exceptional Dark Sky Viewing! Vale, west on US 26, was the first town in Oregon on the Oregon Trail. Today, a series of 30 murals by professional artists depict this early history. OntarioChamber.com
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Lewis & Clark Trail Experience
Interested in the Lewis & Clark Trail?
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