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92343 Fort Clatsop Rd, Astoria, OR 97103
If you love history, adventure, or just the sheer magic of the Pacific Northwest, Fort Clatsop is an absolute must-visit. This is where Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery hunkered down for the winter of 1805-1806, enduring months of relentless rain after their grueling journey to the Pacific. And let me tell you, standing where these explorers once stood hits different when you’re basking in rare January sunshine, which, lucky for me, was the case!
The replica fort itself is incredibly well done, giving you a real sense of what life was like for the expedition. You can almost hear the crackle of the fire, feel the damp chill they must have endured, and imagine Sacagawea and her baby navigating the muddy grounds. Park rangers, dressed in period clothing, bring history to life with fascinating stories and demonstrations.
But beyond the history, the setting is breathtaking. Towering trees, lush moss draping over branches like nature’s own artwork, and trails that lead you right into the heart of the old-growth forest. I could hear the distant call of birds, the rustling of leaves, and for a moment, it felt like I had stepped back in time.
If you’re in Astoria, don’t skip this gem. It’s a place where history meets nature, and for just a moment, you can feel what it was like to stand at the edge of the unknown, just like Lewis and Clark did over 200 years ago.