Near Fort Benton in Chouteau County, Montana — The American West (Mountains)
Lewis and Clark Trail
Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, August 14, 2019
1. Lewis and Clark Trail Marker
Inscription.
Lewis and Clark Trail. . The river below was the first trail west. On their way to the Pacific, Lewis and Clark used the Missouri as their route to the Rocky Mountains. Maria's River enters the Missouri fifteen miles down stream. In June 1805 the Captains spent ten days exploring both forks, trying to decide which way led to the mountains. Although their men wanted to continue up the north fork, Lewis and Clark chose the south fork. Their decision prevented weeks of retracing the trail and probably saved the expedition. The Corps of Discovery was able to cross the Rockies before winter prevented its passage.
The river below was the first trail west. On their way to the Pacific, Lewis and Clark used the Missouri as their route to the Rocky Mountains. Maria's River enters the Missouri fifteen miles down stream. In June 1805 the Captains spent ten days exploring both forks, trying to decide which way led to the mountains. Although their men wanted to continue up the north fork, Lewis and Clark chose the south fork. Their decision prevented weeks of retracing the trail and probably saved the expedition. The Corps of Discovery was able to cross the Rockies before winter prevented its passage.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Environment. In addition, it is included in the Lewis & Clark Expedition series list.
Location. 47° 48.892′ N, 110° 42.569′ W. Marker is near Fort Benton, Montana, in Chouteau County. Marker is on U.S. 87 near County Road 386, on the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Fort Benton MT 59442, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 2 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Mullan Road (here, next to this marker); Fort Benton (here, next to this marker); Steamboat Navigation (here, next to this marker); Chouteau County (here, next to this marker); Fur Trade Posts
More about this marker. This and six other markers are located at the kiosk overlooking the Missouri River.
Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, August 14, 2019
2. Missouri River Overlook Kiosk
Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, August 14, 2019
3. Missouri River
Credits. This page was last revised on October 31, 2019. It was originally submitted on October 31, 2019, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 209 times since then and 14 times this year. Photos:1, 2, 3. submitted on October 31, 2019, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.
