Recently, USA Today published a bucket list of “60 Things To Do In America Before You Die” which was full of iconic destinations located throughout the country. Some of them were obvious bucket list items, such as seeing the Northern Lights from Alaska or driving across the historic Route 66. However, there was one item that especially caught our attention since it involves the Gem State itself. The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail traverses many states, including ours, and visiting part of it should definitely be on your to-do list of adventures. Idaho alone is home to some fantastic spots that tell the story of Lewis and Clark and the impact of their expedition, so make it your goal to experience some of them yourself!
Stretching for approximately 4,900-miles—starting from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and extending to Astoria, Oregon—the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail is one of the most impressive trails in the country. Considering a good chunk of it runs right through the Gem State, we consider it a required bucket list item for any history-loving Idahoan.
Of course, this massive trail follows the historic journey of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. It represents an iconic piece of American history, and Idaho alone is home to some of the trail's most notable and fascinating historic sites.
The historic trail crosses 16 states in all. You can view an interactive map of the trail's points of interest at the National Parks website here. The Idaho portion alone consists of over a dozen unique destinations to visit, ranging from the Sacajawea Interpretive Center in Salmon to the breathtaking Weippe Prairie in Clearwater County.
Traversing the very same trail that Lewis and Clark did so long ago is definitely a unique experience. However, it's the physical historic sites located along the trail that give context to these incredible areas, and visiting them always makes for an interesting day trip.
As Sacajawea's original homeland, the city of Salmon is a particularly fascinating place to visit on the trail. The interpretive center itself is filled with information on Sacajawea and the expedition, but the area also boasts signed walking trails, a learning center, and the Meriwether Theater.
After initially entering Idaho at Lemhi Pass, the expedition then moved north through Montana before entering Idaho once again at Lolo Pass. Today, Lolo Pass in the Bitterroot Mountains is home to a visitor center, interpretive center, warming hut, and endless opportunities for recreation.
The expedition continued west, exiting Idaho at present day Lewiston. Some of the region's most fascinating history can be discovered at the Nez Perce National Historical Park. The park is comprised of several sites that are notable to the Nez Perce people, including Canoe Camp—where the Nez Perce tribe taught the expedition to carve the canoes that ultimately led them to the Pacific Ocean.
There's no denying the important role the Lewis and Clark Expedition played in Idaho history. Seeing some of these historic sites and areas is a must for any Idahoan with an appreciation for our past, so be sure to add a visit to the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail to your bucket list soon!
