Paducah, Kentucky - Wood River, Illinois (228 Miles)
 

Discover the rich history and natural beauty of southwestern Illinois as you follow the path of Lewis and Clark. This section of the trail offers a mix of adventure, history, and stunning landscapes, from ancient Indigenous sites to key locations where the explorers prepared for their westward journey.

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POINTS OF INTEREST

📍Carlyle Lake – Carlyle, Illinois
For outdoor enthusiasts, Carlyle Lake, the largest man-made lake in Illinois, offers boating, fishing, and scenic views. Just 40 miles to the west lies Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Together, these destinations offer travelers a unique opportunity to experience both Illinois' natural beauty and one of North America's most significant archaeological treasures.

📍Cahokia Courthouse – Cahokia, Illinois
Winter 1803 – Spring 1804 – Lewis and Clark used the Old Cahokia Courthouse as their headquarters while gathering supplies, meeting with territorial leaders, and corresponding with President Thomas Jefferson. This historic site played a crucial role in preparing for their legendary expedition.

📍 Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site – Collinsville, Illinois
Explore the remains of the largest prehistoric Indigenous city north of Mexico. Though Lewis and Clark never visited Cahokia Mounds, its history and cultural significance provide valuable context for the land they traveled.

📍 Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center & Camp Wood – Hartford, Illinois
Step back in time at this interactive museum, where you can explore a 55-foot keelboat, experience camp life, and get a sense of the explorers' preparations before they embarked into the unknown.

📍Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower – Hartford, Illinois
👉Soar 180 feet above the landscape with breathtaking views of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers’ confluence. The tower features observation decks at 50, 100, and 150 feet, accessible via stairs or elevator, offering a unique perspective on the explorers' starting point.

📍Sacagawea & Jean Baptiste Statue – Godfrey, Illinois
Located on the campus of Lewis and Clark Community College, this striking sculpture by Glenna Goodacre honors Sacagawea and her son, Jean Baptiste. Goodacre also designed the image featured on the U.S. Mint Sacagawea $1 coin.

📍West Alton → Jefferson City, Missouri Itinerary. Follow the Lewis & Clark Route along Highway 94​

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