Archaeological discoveries

What rivers did Lewis and Clark find?

Lewis and Clark encountered many significant rivers during their expedition across the Western United States. Some of the major rivers they explored include:

1. The Missouri River: This was the primary waterway that Lewis and Clark traveled along for a majority of their journey. They started their expedition from Camp Wood near St. Louis, Missouri, and ascended the Missouri River all the way to its headwaters in present-day Montana.

2. The Yellowstone River: Lewis and Clark encountered the Yellowstone River while exploring the upper Missouri River Basin. The Yellowstone River joins the Missouri River in present-day North Dakota.

3. The Snake River: Lewis and Clark encountered the Snake River during their overland journey through the Bitterroot Mountains. The Snake River is a major tributary of the Columbia River in the Northwestern United States.

4. The Columbia River: The Columbia River played a crucial role in Lewis and Clark's exploration of the Pacific Northwest. They traveled down the Columbia River from the interior region to reach the Pacific Ocean.

5. The Clearwater River: While exploring the Columbia River Basin, Lewis and Clark also encountered the Clearwater River, which joins the Snake River in present-day Idaho.

6. The Willamette River: During their time in the Pacific Northwest, Lewis and Clark also explored the Willamette River, which flows through the fertile Willamette Valley in present-day Oregon.

These rivers were vital navigational routes that facilitated Lewis and Clark's exploration of the vast and uncharted territories of the American West.