Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Why This Trail Matters Here

The Lewis & Clark Expedition traveled along the Missouri River through what is now north-central Montana, passing the future site of Fort Benton on their journey west. This stretch of river would later become one of the most important corridors of exploration, trade, and travel in the region.
Fort Benton’s location along the Upper Missouri places it squarely within the story of the Corps of Discovery—and helps explain why this town would later emerge as a major gateway to the northern plains and beyond.

“An interesting question was now to be determined; which of these rivers was the Missouri…To mistake the stream … would not only lose us the whole of this season … but would probably so dishearten the party that it might defeat the expedition altogether.”
— Capt. Meriwether Lewis, Decision Point (June 1805)

Experience the Lewis & Clark Trail in Fort Benton

Visitors can explore the legacy of the Lewis & Clark Expedition through several meaningful sites in and around Fort Benton:

• Montana’s Lewis & Clark Memorial Statue, overlooking the Missouri River
• The historic levee and riverfront, where early explorers and travelers passed through
• Local museums that interpret the Upper Missouri River era and westward exploration
• A short drive to Decision Point, where the expedition famously chose which river branch to follow

Together, these places offer a clear sense of the landscape, challenges, and decisions that shaped the expedition’s journey through Montana.

Learn More

For additional history and details about the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail, visit the official National Park Service website and other heritage resources.

Explore more of Fort Benton’s history and plan your visit to experience where these stories come to life.