Landmarks in the Lewis and Clark Route
Oregon is the last of eleven states that the Lewis and Clark route passes. Although interstate travel today is significantly easier, it was nothing but perilous when Meriwether Lewis and William Clark set out on their grand quest for the mythical country-crossing passage and which Jefferson had assigned them to.
When visiting the state of Oregon, you have the chance to revisit some of the most important sites that mark the last leg of their journey before Lewis and Clark returned east and proclaimed heroes.
Ecola State Park
Take the northern route past Cannon Beach and you’ll get to Tillamook Head, where Ecola State Park is located. Accompanied by Sacagawea and other men of the expedition, Sacagawea had begun the search for a mammoth beast the Indians had told them about. They trudged past forests all the way to the ocean where the remains of a whale were to be found. The Clatsop Loop trail, which is 2.5 miles long, may be followed if you wish to retrace the steps of Clark and his men on their whale quest.
Fort to Sea Trail
This is one of the toughest challenges that will come your way in Oregon’s Lewis and Clark route. The trail is six and a half miles long so if you’re not ready for that long a walk then you might want to start exercising to improve your stamina and strength. This particular route was used for foraging and trading between Sunset Beach and the winter home of the expedition at Fort Clatsop. While on the path, you’ll get to enjoy amazing scenery that includes pleasant meadows, breathtaking forests, and mysterious dunes.
But if you happen to be in the area during the summer, you can enjoy the relaxing shuttle service offered at the fort for free and which will take you all the way to Sunset Beach. No return trip offered though!
Rowena Plateau
Travel to Hood River and to its east is the Rowena Plateau, the site of Tom McCall Preserve. The preserve is managed by the Natural Conservancy and offers an amazing view of the Columbia. From this vantage point, you’ll also be able to enjoy the sight of Columbia Plateau dry lands blending flawlessly with Cascade foothills.
If you’re up to a bit of hiking, there’s a mile-long trail that will take you past bunchgrass prairie, which is beautifully covered with wildflowers come springtime, glistening ponds, and wondrous oak groves. Later on, you’ll reach Columbia’s basalt cliffs, which are part of the Lewis and Clark route as the expedition heads for the river gorge.
