It was time to begin the journey home, but first they needed to find a place to spend the winter months. Lewis and Clark had already taken note of possible wintering over encampments as they headed down the Columbia River. One such location was called Quicksand River (noted as SR, or Sandy River in the journals) located east of today’s Portland. Another was called “the falls,” likely near The Dalles area today. These locations were considered good because of access to plentiful food, ideal conditions for establishing temporary shelter, and the promise of potentially better climate. Such locations also offered access to other tribes for trading.
On November 23, 1805, the Corps completed final preparations for their return trip up river.
On November 24, they woke up resolved to “cross and examine” the south side of the Columbia River in search of a winter encampment.
What happened during those few hours to change their minds?
