About
On your Cannon Beach getaway, you can retrace the steps of American explorers who shaped history at the End of Lewis & Clark National Historical Trail in Seaside Beach.
At the Pacific Ocean's edge, the Corps of Discovery, led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, concluded their westward journey in 1806. They fulfilled President Thomas Jefferson's charge to find a water route to the Pacific and documented the vast territories of the western United States.
The trail commemorates their historic route, stretching approximately 4,900 miles from St. Louis, Missouri, to the Oregon coast. It's a significant and compelling narrative of exploration, endurance, and discovery.
Visitors to the End of Lewis & Clark National Historical Trail can immerse themselves in the stories and landscapes that the expedition encountered. The bronze statue of Lewis and Clark (and Lewis' dog, Seaman) brings to life the challenges and triumphs of this monumental piece of American history.
The statue's Seaside location makes it easy to combine a hike to view the iconic Tillamook Rock Lighthouse perched over a mile from shore.
Retracing the footsteps of the Corps of Discovery makes for a remarkable experience that brings history to life on a Cannon Beach vacation.
Fun Facts & Cool Features
The End of Lewis & Clark National Historical Trail is a site of historical significance and where visitors can find engaging features and fascinating facts.
The trail's terminus, marked by the Salt Cairn monument in Seaside, symbolizes the site where members boiled seawater to make salt, a necessity for preserving food for their return journey. This remarkable process of resourcefulness is commemorated at the Seaside Historical Society Museum, where visitors can learn more about the expedition's day-to-day life.
Another captivating feature is the Fort Clatsop replica near Astoria, a short drive from Seaside. This fort was the winter encampment for the expedition in 1805-1806. Today, it serves as a living history museum, where interpreters in period clothing demonstrate early 19th-century skills, crafts, and activities.
Like Lewis and Clark, exploring new regions takes energy, so be sure to plan a meal at one of the many eateries in the area. Osprey Cafe is your go-to for artisan coffee, breakfast, and lunch, and it serves fresh, locally sourced fare. Nonni's Italian Bistro is perfect after trekking trails or exploring the beach, and its high-end Italian fare will satisfy your appetite.
The End of Lewis & Clark National Historical Trail transcends ordinary beach visits, providing scenic beauty and a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of America's pioneering spirits. Here, one can reflect on the boundless curiosity and courage that defined the Lewis and Clark expedition, making a visit educational and inspiring.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions from Cannon Beach to the End of Lewis & Clark National Historical Trail:
- Start on US-101 S from Cannon Beach.
- Follow US-101 S for approximately 17 miles to Seaside, Oregon.
- Take the exit toward Seaside city center from US-101 S.
- Continue on Holladay Drive.
- Turn right onto Broadway Street.
- Follow Broadway Street as it turns slightly right and becomes Avenue A.
- Turn left onto S Columbia St toward the beach.
- Address: 1806 Broadway St, Seaside, OR 97138
Cost
Visiting the End of Lewis & Clark National Historical Trail is free!
Local Tips
- Early morning or late afternoon visits offer quieter moments to reflect and explore.
- Parking near the beach can be limited; plan accordingly.
- If interested in the expedition's history, consider visiting the Seaside Historical Society Museum.
- The area is known for sudden weather changes; dress in layers and bring waterproof gear.
- For a unique experience, visit during the Lewis & Clark reenactment events.