3,323 Miles on the Lewis and Clark Trail

Paddling past the White Cliffs, upper Missouri River

This year, from March 24 thru September 14, I hiked and paddled the westbound route of the Lewis and Clark expedition.

Physically, it was one of the most grueling expeditions I've ever tackled, but it was also one of the greatest and most rewarding adventures as well.

One of the best aspects of the journey was variety. For example, I hiked the first 800 miles of the journey, a route that included a pleasant springtime walk along the Katy Trail which parallels the Missouri. Next, I kayaked over 1,500 miles up the Missouri River, the most challenging part of the adventure, especially the days I was fighting both the wind and the current.

Lemhi Pass

From Three Forks, Montana, the head of the Missouri River, I began hiking again. It was thrill to reach Lemhi Pass on the Continental Divide in early August after 2,500 miles of travel. Eight years before I'd crossed this same pass while hiking the CDT.

I began kayaking again near Canoe Camp on the Clearwater River in Idaho. From there it was about 500 more miles down to the Pacific Ocean.

You can see an overview of my journey along with a route map and gear lists, here: http://bucktrack.com/Lewis_and_Clark_Trail.html

You can read my daily journal and see dozens of highlight photos, here: http://bucktrack.com/2016/03/24/

Lewis and Clark Trail, 2016

This year I hope to retrace the route of the Lewis and Clark expedition. I will be starting on Friday, March 25 at the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. I will be walking the first part of the Trail until I get to Yankton, South Dakota. My kayak will be waiting there.

The plan is to paddle upstream as far as Three Forks, Montana, or even Twin Bridges. Then I'll follow the L&C route on foot, over Lemhi Pass, Lost Trail Pass and Lolo Pass, and follow the Lolo Trail to Weippe and on to Orofino, Idaho. There I'll get back in my kayak for the trip to the Pacific.

If all goes well, that's about 3,300 miles. You can find more information about my trip, see a map of the route on which I will be posting position updates, and also see a list of gear I will be using, on this page.

Have a good day!