Birnt Hills Overlook

The Birnt Hills Overlook marks the approximate location where Meriwether Lewis and William Clark's expedition, also known as the Corps of Discovery, camped in 1805. 

The Lewis and Clark Expedition holds significant historical importance due to its contribution to westward expansion, mapping, and scientific discovery. The expedition, commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson, explored the Louisiana Purchase and the Pacific Northwest, expanding American knowledge and strengthening its claim to the region. 

The name Birnt Hills refers to the red, fire-baked rock formations called scoria. The overlook provides a vantage point to see how the area's terrain and geology, including coal fires, have shaped the landscape. More information about these features is on the Geology page. 

A short .30-mile trail from the trailhead leads out to an overlook with four covered benches on a cement pad and three informational panels with details about explorers Lewis and Clark's time in the area. 

Two benches are positioned at .10-mile intervals along this trail, offering a view of the grass and woody plant-covered terrain.

The adjacent Birnt Hills Loop is a 3-mile loop trail that follows the hill, slopes down to the river, and back up to the trailhead.