Three Forks to Billings
Clark's 1806 Return

Just outside of Three Forks, you’ll find Missouri Headwaters State Park, the confluence of the Madison, Jefferson and Gallatin rivers which form the 2,300 mile Missouri River.

At Missouri Headwaters State Park, you can still find the area looking much as it did historically – with much of the region’s abundant wildlife, vegetation, and scenic beauty preserved – making it clear what has attracted people for thousands of years.

Bozeman, Montana, is a vibrant town where history, culture, and outdoor adventure come together. While Lewis and Clark didn’t pass directly through Bozeman, their expedition explored the surrounding region, mapping routes that later helped shape Montana’s frontier history. Today, Bozeman serves as a gateway for those retracing the Corps of Discovery’s journey, offering easy access to the Missouri and Yellowstone Rivers, as well as historic trails once traveled by early explorers and Native American tribes.

History buffs will love the Museum of the Rockies, home to world-renowned dinosaur fossils, Native American artifacts, and exhibits on the early pioneers of the West. For an outdoor experience, follow the Lewis and Clark spirit of exploration by hiking the breathtaking trails of the Bridger and Gallatin Mountains, fishing in pristine rivers, or soaking in the nearby Bozeman Hot Springs—a perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.

Livingston, Montana, a historic town nestled along the Yellowstone River, which William Clark followed on his eastward return in 1806. This scenic waterway offers excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and riverside walks that echo the expedition’s path. Visit the Yellowstone Gateway Museum to explore exhibits on the region’s Indigenous cultures, early explorers, and the lasting impact of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Traveling east from Livingston along Interstate 90, follow the Yellowstone River through Big Timber and Columbus, tracing the very landscapes Clark and his men navigated by canoe. These rolling plains and river valleys remain largely unchanged, offering a glimpse into the untamed beauty of the American West as experienced over two centuries ago.

Nestled between the rugged Crazy Mountains and the rolling plains of Montana, Big Timber offers a perfect mix of history, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm. Located along the Yellowstone River, this area echoes the path of Lewis and Clark, who navigated Montana’s waterways on their journey westward. While the expedition didn’t pass directly through Big Timber, its location along key historic routes makes it a great stop for explorers following in their footsteps.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find world-class fly fishing on the Yellowstone and Boulder Rivers, as well as endless opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding. For a taste of local history and culture, visit the Crazy Mountain Museum, where exhibits highlight pioneer life, Native American heritage, and the region’s ranching history.

Billings, Montana, offers a unique opportunity to connect with the legendary journey of Lewis and Clark. As William Clark led a portion of the expedition back east in 1806, he traveled along the Yellowstone River, leaving behind a lasting mark at Pompeys Pillar National Monument—the only physical evidence of the expedition still visible today. Here, you can see Clark’s signature etched into the sandstone, explore interactive exhibits, and take in breathtaking views of the river that guided their way.

Beyond Pompeys Pillar, Billings offers rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Follow the path of the Corps of Discovery along scenic byways, visit museums showcasing Montana’s frontier heritage, and enjoy the hospitality of the West’s Trailhead.