FOLLOW THE LANDSCAPE. DISCOVER THE STORY.

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail

America’s stories are written into its landscapes.
Header: Giant springs is a site along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Site located in Great Falls, Montana · NPS Photo / Alex Wiles · Public domain, NPS · Photo credits
PLACES THAT KEEP THE PAST CLOSE

A story worth following.

Explore the extended expedition corridor from the Ohio River to the Pacific. River overlooks, tribal museums and interpretive centers reveal a journey made possible by existing Native knowledge and trade networks.

Small waterfall with brown rocks and green moss
Giant springs is a site along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Site located in Great Falls, Montana
NPS Photo / Alex Wiles · Public domain, NPS
sun dips behind mountains. In the foreground and meandering river catches the light. Leafy trees sur
Sunset over Missouri River headwaters
NPS Photo / Alex Wiles · Public domain, NPS
BUILD YOUR OWN CHAPTER

Places to begin

  • Falls of the Ohio
  • Knife River Indian Villages
  • Fort Clatsop

Suggested starting points, not a turn-by-turn route. Choose a manageable local section; stops may be far apart.

Make the visit work for you

Plan one regional chapter. Much of the expedition traveled by water; this is not a continuous hiking route.

Give the story time

Allow time for interpretation, a short walk and conversations. One well-chosen historic place can be more rewarding than a rushed list of stops.

Bring your group comfortably

Confirm parking, restrooms, walking surfaces and group reservations with each site. A historic trail designation does not guarantee coach access.

Official visitor information ↗

U.S. visits only. Historic routes may cross private property or have disconnected public sections. Official links provide current maps, access and operating information. Photographs may show earlier conditions.