Adams Homestead & Nature Preserve
In Lewis and Clark's day, the Missouri River was shallow and unpredictable. Some days, the men spent hours towing the keelboat over sandbars. At Adams Nature Preserve, you can see one of the last free-flowing segments of the Missouri River. This section of the river retains its original character. More than seven miles of hiking and biking trails crisscross the preserve. Located near North Sioux City. Take the McCook exit off I-29 and follow the signs.
Site of First Election
Following the death of Sgt. Charles Floyd, the captains needed a replacement. A vote was held on Aug. 22, 1804. On that day, members of the expedition selected Patrick Gass to replace Sgt. Charles Floyd, who had died two days earlier. Gass garnered 19 votes in what has been called the first election by U.S. citizens west of the Mississippi.
A marker in downtown Elk Point relays the story. Elk Point holds a re-enactment of this historic election each year at their Heritage Days Celebration. It includes an old-fashioned rendezvous encampment, living-history demonstrations, musical entertainment and more.
For more information call 605-356-3336 or visit www.elkpoint.org
Spirit Mound
Local tribes believed that 18-inch devils, armed with arrows, inhabited this prairie hill. The story sparked Lewis and Clark's interest, and on Aug. 25, 1804, they set off on foot to investigate. The men hiked for four hours in the sweltering heat. At the top, the infamous devils were nowhere to be found. But the explorers did see an incredible sight: a herd of buffalo, nearly 800 of them, grazed in the distance. Spirit Mound stands along Highway 19 about six miles north of Vermillion. The land is currently being restored to original grasses and has a trail to the top.
Lewis and Clark Visitor Center and Recreation Area
On Aug. 30, 1804 the expedition had its first council with the Yankton Sioux. The explorers presented the Yanktons with gifts of tobacco, flags and medals. The Yanktons prepared a feast. The Lewis and Clark Visitor Center is a great place to learn more about the expedition, the tribes they encountered and the river itself. Built on a bluff overlooking Lewis and Clark Lake, the center offers incredible photo opportunities. Pastel colored cliffs line the shore. The shimmering waters play host to sailors, anglers and water-skiers and swimmers throughout the summer. Lewis and Clark Recreation Area offers a full-service marina, sandy beaches, hiking/biking trails and a paved trail that hugs the shoreline. Options for accommodations include campsites (many with spectacular views of the lake), cabins and motel rooms. Take Highway 52 west from Yankton. To get to the Visitor Center, take the bridge across Gavins Point Dam.
Running Water
On Sept. 2, 1806, on their return trip, Lewis and Clark met up with a group of Yankton Sioux. After realizing they are friends, the two groups smoke several pipes and exchange news of what has happened in the two years since the expedition first passed through the area. Today the Chief Standing Bear Bridge spans the Missiouri River near this location.
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