In 1805 the Lewis and Clark Expedition was far from civilization, heading across the western plains and into the Rocky Mountains. It was the critical year for the Corps of Discovery, as the men overcame enormous physical obstacles and eventually reached their goal, the Pacific coast.
The year began with the Corps of Discovery in its winter quarters, among the Mandan Indians in South Dakota.
August 1805
Lewis intends to find the Shoshone Indians. He believes they have horses, and he may be able to barter for some.August 12, 1805
Lewis reaches the Lemhi Pass, in the Rocky Mountains. From the continental divide Lewis can look to the west and he's greatly disappointed to see mountains reaching as far as he can see. He had been hoping to find a descending slope, and perhaps a river, that the men could take for an easy passage westward. It's now clear that reaching the west coast is going to be very difficult.August 13, 1805
Lewis encounters Shosone Indians. The Corps of Discovery was split at this point, with Clark leading a larger group. When he did not arrive at a rendezvous point as planned, Lewis was worried, and sent search parties out for him. Finally Clark and the other men arrived, and the Corps of Discovery was united. The Shoshone round up horses for the men to use on their way westward.September 1805
The Corps of Discovery encounters very rough terrain in the Rocky Mountains, and their passage is difficult. They finally emerge from the mountains and encounter Nez Perce Indians. The Nez Perce help them build canoes, and they begin to travel again by water.October 1805
The expedition moves fairly quickly by canoe, and the Corps of Discovery enters the Columbia River.November 1805
In his journal, Meriwether Lewis mentions encountering Indians wearing sailor's jackets. The clothing, which must have been obtained through trade with whites, means they are getting close to the Pacific Ocean.November 15, 1805
The expedition reaches the Pacific Ocean. On November 16, Lewis mentioned in his journal that their camp is "in full view of the ocean."December 1805
The Corps of Discovery settles into winter quarters in a place where they can hunt elk for food. In the journals of the expedition, there is much complaining about the constant rain and poor food. On Christmas day they men celebrate as best they can, in what must have been miserable conditions.In 1806 the Corps of Discovery said farewell to the Pacific coast and began its long journey back to civilization.
