Iowa Riverfront Trail - Lewis and Clark Trail Experience

Information

lat: 41.243242667303 long: -95.90803255369

Check out this 7.8-mile out-and-back trail near Council Bluffs, Iowa. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 2 h 18 min to complete. This is a popular trail for road biking, running, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are March through September. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

This route begins at the Western Historic Trails Center. Through bike trails and on-road lanes, the Iowa Riverfront Trail meanders through various locations and along the levee system in Council Bluffs, skirts the Blackbird Marsh County Preserve, and ends at Big Lake Park seven miles later.

Nearby Attractions

Lauritzen Gardens

Lauritzen Gardens

Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St, Omaha, NE 68108, USA
Distance: 0.77 mi (straight line)

Outdoor Experiences

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The Durham Museum

The Durham Museum

The Durham Museum, South 10th Street, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 1.23 mi (straight line)

Guided Tours Museums and Interpretive Centers

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Heartland of America Park

Heartland of America Park

Heartland of America Park at The RiverFront, Douglas Street, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 1.27 mi (straight line)

Galleries and Venues Outdoor Experiences

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Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts

Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts

734 S 12th St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA
Distance: 1.40 mi (straight line)

Galleries and Venues

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The Old Market

The Old Market

The Old Market, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 1.47 mi (straight line)

Lodging Galleries and Venues Food and Drinks Shopping

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Big Elk Statue

Big Elk Statue

Chief Big Elk Statue, Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 1.50 mi (straight line)

General History Outdoor Experiences Tribal Experiences Walks and Hikes

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Lewis and Clark Landing at the RiverFront

Lewis and Clark Landing at the RiverFront

602 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA
Distance: 1.52 mi (straight line)

Outdoor Experiences Fun and Sports

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Gene Leahy Mall

Gene Leahy Mall

1001 Douglas St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA
Distance: 1.53 mi (straight line)

Galleries and Venues Festivals and Events Outdoor Experiences

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Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, South 10th Street, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 1.56 mi (straight line)

Outdoor Experiences

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Desert Dome

Desert Dome

3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68108, USA
Distance: 1.59 mi (straight line)

Museums and Interpretive Centers

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Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge., Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 1.72 mi (straight line)

Outdoor Experiences Walks and Hikes

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Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center – History Markers

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center – History Markers

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center, Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 1.72 mi (straight line)

Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features

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Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center – River Markers

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center – River Markers

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center, Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 1.72 mi (straight line)

Guided Tours Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features

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Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center – Flora Markers

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center – Flora Markers

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center, Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 1.72 mi (straight line)

Guided Tours Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features

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Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center – Notable Markers

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center – Notable Markers

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center, Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 1.72 mi (straight line)

Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features

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The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters Visitor Center

The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters Visitor Center

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center, Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 1.72 mi (straight line)

Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features

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Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center, Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 1.72 mi (straight line)

Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features

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Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center- “The Council was Held”

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center- “The Council was Held”

601 Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE 68102
Distance: 1.73 mi (straight line)

Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features Outdoor Experiences

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Discover History at the Nez Perce National Histori

Discover History at the Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center!

The Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center in Idaho offers a deep look into the history and culture of the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) people, who played a crucial role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition. In 1805, after a grueling journey through the Bitterroot Mountains, the Corps of Discovery arrived in Nez Perce territory, starving and exhausted. The Nez Perce provided food, shelter, and guidance, helping Lewis and Clark continue their journey westward.

Back then, the area was home to vast prairies, towering pine forests, and winding rivers—landscapes that remain largely unchanged today. The visitor center, set against this breathtaking scenery, offers exhibits, artifacts, and stories that highlight the Nez Perce’s enduring legacy.

Fun fact: The Nez Perce not only aided Lewis and Clark but also introduced them to their expertly crafted Appaloosa horses, known for their speed and endurance.
Visitors can explore museum exhibits, watch cultural demonstrations, and walk interpretive trails. Nearby, the Lolo Trail offers a chance to experience part of the same route Lewis and Clark traveled.

For history lovers and outdoor adventurers alike, the Nez Perce National Historical Park is a must-visit!

All photos credited to Cait Clark.

Step Into History at the Lewis and Clark Interpret

Step Into History at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Sioux City, Iowa!!

Located along the Missouri River, the Sioux City Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center offers an in-depth look at the legendary Lewis and Clark Expedition and its impact on the region. This site is especially significant as it honors Sergeant Charles Floyd, the only member of the expedition to die during the journey. His passing in 1804 near present-day Sioux City remains an important chapter in expedition history.

During Lewis and Clark’s time, this area was an untamed wilderness of rolling prairies and towering cottonwood trees. Today, it is home to a modern interpretive center surrounded by beautiful riverfront landscapes, parks, and monuments, including the Sergeant Floyd Monument, a 100-foot obelisk marking his burial site.
Fun fact: The center features life-sized animatronic figures of Lewis, Clark, and Floyd, bringing history to life in an engaging way!

Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, historical reenactments, and educational programs. The nearby riverfront trails and parks offer a perfect place for walking, biking, and reflecting on the expedition’s journey. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, the Sioux City Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is a must-visit!

All photos credited to Cait Clark

Step Into History at Fort Belle Fontaine! Establi

Step Into History at Fort Belle Fontaine!

Established in 1805, Fort Belle Fontaine was the first U.S. military post west of the Mississippi River and played a key role for the Lewis and Clark Expedition. After completing their journey, the Corps of Discovery stopped here to report their findings, marking a historic moment in America’s westward expansion.

Today, Fort Belle Fontaine Park occupies the same scenic area that was once home to the fort. While the original structures are no longer standing due to natural shifts in the Missouri River’s path, visitors can still see remnants of stonework from later military installations and enjoy trails, woodlands, and views of the river. The name “Belle Fontaine” means “beautiful fountain” in French, referring to the natural springs that were once a key resource for the fort.

Fun fact: Fort Belle Fontaine was a vital outpost, not only for Lewis and Clark, but also for trade and interaction with Native American nations.

Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking in this peaceful, historic setting. Whether you're a nature lover or history buff, Fort Belle Fontaine offers a unique glimpse into the past!

Have you visited this historic site? Share your thoughts below!

Photos courtesy of the U. S. National Park Service and Explore St. Louis

Established in 1818 by the North West Company, For

Established in 1818 by the North West Company, Fort Nez Perce was near the mouth the Walla Walla River. It is in this area that the Lewis and Clark Expedition camped April 29, 1806 in their third night with Chief Yellepet.

The current red #22 navigation marker on a tall piling sits on the spot where Ft Nez Perce was located, and is visible from the Wallula Junction area on Hwy 730 mile marker 5 and is 4/10 mile north of the mouth of the Walla Walla River. From here the Expedition headed northeast on the Overland Trail.

https://lewis-clark.org/day-by-day/29-apr-1806/

April 23, 1806 - the Expedition woke up at their c

April 23, 1806 - the Expedition woke up at their campsite which is behind John Day Lock and Dam but Charbonneau was missing his two horses, and so they were delayed, and one was given up as lost.

During the day they walked on loose sand for twelve miles and were happy to stop and make their next camp at Rock Creek.

Here Charbonneau made arrangements for another horse, as Clark wrote:

"Shabono made a bargin with one of the Indian men going with us, for a horse for Which he gave his Shirt. and two of the leather Sutes of his wife."

https://lewis-clark.org/day-by-day/23-apr-1806/