"a good road"
Ancient Passage Between the Rivers . On the advice of the Walla Walla people, the Lewis and Clark Expedition followed "a good road...plenty of Deer and Antilopes" that led travelers overland between there Columbia - Walla Walla and Snake - Clearwater river confluences. The Expedition traveled approximately 100 miles on this route between April 30 and May 5, 1806. For centuries, American Indians used this same trail as a principal route between the rivers. Later, other explorers, fur trappers, traders, miners, and settlers followed the route. The exact location of the trail is unclear, but most historians believe it passed through Dayton.
Where the Deer and Antelope Play Deer are still plentiful in this region, including mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginiannus). American pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) no longer live in Washington but can be found in other parts of the northwest. Biologists are researching the possibility of restoring the species in this state. Although the pronghorn is often called an antelope, it is not a true antelope.
April 27, 1806 "the Indians informed us that there was a good road Which passed from the Columbia opposite to this Village to the enterance of Kooskooske (Clearwater River) on the S. Side of Lewis's (Snake) river, they also informed us, there was a plenty of Deer and Antilopes on the road with good water and grass...that the Country was level and the road good, under this circumstance we did not hesitate in pursuing the rout recommended by our guide and Corroberated by Yetleppit and others." ~ William Clark ~
"we knew that the a road in that direction if the country would permit would shorten our rout at least 80 miles." ~ Meriwether Lewis ~ These journal entries were written a few days before the explorers left to follow the overland trail.
Trailblazing People have always followed trails from one place to another. Over time, some of these trails have become streets and highways. What trails have you traveled? In your journal, make a list of all the trails you have followed on this trip. . This historical marker was erected by Lewis and Clark Expedition - Washington. It is in Dayton in Columbia County Washington