Traveler's Rest (Lolo, Montana) facts for kids
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Traveler's Rest (Montana)
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Countryside at Travelers Rest
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 Location in Montana
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | Lolo, Montana |
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| Built | 1805 |
| NRHP reference No. | 66000437 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
| Designated NHL | October 9, 1960 |
Traveler's Rest is a special place in Montana. It was a key stopping point for the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition. This historic spot is located about one mile south of Lolo, Montana.
The Lewis and Clark team stopped here twice. First, they rested from September 9 to September 11, 1805. This was before they bravely crossed the tough Bitterroot Mountains. They returned to Traveler's Rest on their way back. They stayed from June 30 to July 3, 1806. This site is at the eastern end of the Lolo Trail.
Traveler's Rest is very important to American history. It was named a National Historic Landmark in 1960. Later, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966. Today, most of the site is part of the 51-acre (21 ha) Traveler's Rest State Park. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks manages this park.
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Discovering Traveler's Rest
For a long time, no one knew the exact spot where Lewis and Clark camped. Scientists and historians worked hard to find it. In 2002, they made amazing discoveries. They found old campfires and even places where the explorers used the bathroom. These sites had tiny traces of mercury. This mercury came from medicines Lewis and Clark used.
These findings were very exciting! They proved that this was truly the place where the expedition camped. Traveler's Rest is the only spot on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail with physical proof like this. It shows us exactly where the explorers were.
The Expedition's Journey
The Lewis and Clark Expedition was a big adventure. It was a journey across North America. President Thomas Jefferson sent them to explore the new lands. They wanted to find a water route to the Pacific Ocean. They also wanted to learn about the plants, animals, and Native American tribes.
Traveler's Rest was a vital stop on their long trip. It was a place to prepare for the difficult mountains ahead. It was also a place to rest on their way back home. The area looks much like it did when Lewis and Clark were there.
Splitting Up the Team
After their second stay in 1806, Lewis and Clark made a big decision. They split their team into two groups. This allowed them to explore more of Montana. Meriwether Lewis's group traveled to what is now the Alice Creek Historic District. William Clark's group explored other areas. They did not meet again until they reached Sanish, North Dakota.
Protecting a Historic Site
When Traveler's Rest was first recognized in 1960, its exact boundaries were not clear. More research was done over time. In 1983, the boundaries were officially set. However, later studies showed some small errors.
Scientists and historians continued their work. In 2004, they asked for the boundaries to be corrected. This request was approved in 2006. This careful work helps protect the site. It ensures that this important piece of history is preserved for everyone. A new road and bridge were also built in 2006 to help people visit the park.
