Clark's Lookout

State Park on the Beaverhead River

Indian Education For All Lesson Plan

In 1805, the Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through this area exploring the land on behalf of the United States. Captain Lewis was leading the way with a small group while Captain Clark was bringing up the rear. In order to make the journey across the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean, the party needed horses from the local tribe.

On August 13, 1805, Clark climbed a high bluff above the Beaverhead River to get a sense of his surroundings and document the location. Unknown to Clark, Lewis had met with 60 Shoshone warriors and was working to establish a meeting at what would become Camp Fortunate. While Clark was using the lookout, Lewis was struggling to gain the trust and cooperation of the Shoshone. The longer Clark remained behind, the harder it became for Lewis to keep the tribe with him. Low on food, the Shoshones were anxious to move on and hunt.

Clark's Lookout State Park is located just 1 mile north of Dillon off Highway 91. Near the paved parking lot, interpretive signs explain navagational methods used by the expedition. Make the short walk to the top of the lookout and you'll discover a magnficent view of the Beaverhead Valley and a monument showing the the three compass readings that Captain Clark took on that day.

Clark's Lookout State Park is located on the Beaverhead River 47 miles from the mouth on the left hand side as you face down stream. Poindexter Slough is the next access site up stream from Clark's Lookout.