Lewis and Clark Tours

Sacajawea, Idaho’s first guide

In August of 1805, the Corps of Discovery crossed over the Great Divide at Lemhi Pass and traded with the local Shoshone culture and began preparing for the most difficult leg of their expedition. Captain Clark and a few men explored the Salmon River from present day Salmon, Idaho to a point just downstream of Indian Creek Guest Ranch, camping at the mouth of Indian Creek. 

Clark named present day Indian Creek “Berry Creek” on the map he produced of the area due to the numerous edible berries available to the underfed members of Clark’s party. Finding no practical route down the rapid filled river, they rejoined the Corps which had remained at the Shoshone camp. From an overlook near the ranch, you can see the same ridge that Captain Clark scaled to view the expanse of Salmon River Mountains that lie to the west.

Today one can witness the same wild river and mountains that repelled the Corps of Discovery, visit the local sites of their camps, drive with us to Lemhi Pass and visit the Sacajawea Interpretive Center in Salmon, Idaho. In his popular book, Undaunted Courage, author Steven Ambrose chose Lemhi Pass as his favorite site on the Lewis and Clark Trail due to its beauty and unspoiled views.

We also have an interesting collection of replica tools on the expedition as well as an 1803 Harper’s Ferry .54 caliber flintlock rifle which we demonstrate to our guests. Join us for a customized Lewis and Clark Tour of the Salmon River area.

Here are some links to explore for further information about Lewis & Clark, the Corps of Discovery, and their journey through Idaho.

National Geographic Magazine celebrates Lewis & Clark's 200th anniversary
Sacajawea Interpretive & Education Center
Lewis & Clark and the Corps of Discovery
Idaho Public Television - Lewis & Clark Special
Lewis & Clark in Idaho
Traveling the Lewis & Clark Trail
Discovering Lewis & Clark
Lewis & Clark Trail
Lewis & Clark - a Journey of the Corps of Discovery (a film by Ken Burns)