The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, managed from its headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska, has unveiled its 2023 Annual Report. This comprehensive document outlines a year dedicated to enriching the historic 4,900-mile route that follows the exploratory path of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark across the United States.
“It was a great year on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail and a great year at the National Park Service Trail headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska. We have an outstanding annual report that highlights the projects we have done with our many amazing partners,” said Superintendent Mark Weekley, praising the past year’s achievements.
The 2023 initiatives included the revitalization of the Virtual Resources Inventory program and a Midwest National Trails open house, which provided a platform for increased public engagement and education about the trail, as per a National Park Service news release.
One of the flagship efforts discussed in the report is a five-year inclusive storytelling project aimed at recentering York, an African American member of the expedition, within the narrative of the Lewis and Clark story.
This initiative represents a significant step towards acknowledging and integrating diverse perspectives into the historical record of the expedition.
The report also detailed a transition in the Geotourism program that aligns with sustainable tourism practices, focusing on the cultural and historical preservation along the trail. Enhanced tribal engagement in Montana was another key area, with efforts increasing to incorporate Indigenous insights and heritage into the trail’s activities and interpretations.
Moreover, the 2023 Annual Report documents the partnerships that have been pivotal in advancing the trail’s objectives. These collaborations span across various domains, including historical societies, local governments, and educational institutions, all united in their goal to foster a deeper appreciation of the trail’s historical significance.
In terms of infrastructure, the trail saw improvements aimed at enriching visitor experiences, from updated informational signage to enhanced digital resources accessible via nps.gov/lecl. These resources provide visitors with a wealth of educational content and information about the numerous historic sites and visitor centers along the route.
The National Park Service, overseeing more than 400 national parks and employing over 20,000 people, continues to work with communities across the nation to preserve local history and cultivate recreational opportunities.
The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail is a testament to these efforts, offering a journey through America’s past that is both enlightening and engaging.
As the trail progresses into the future, the National Park Service remains committed to its mission of education and preservation, ensuring that the Lewis and Clark expedition’s legacy endures.
For those interested in exploring this historic route or engaging with its diverse educational programs, further information can be found by contacting the National Historic Trail’s office in Omaha or visiting the official website.
For additional details on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail and to access the 2023 Annual Report, visit nps.gov/lecl. Join the conversation and be a part of America’s enduring journey of discovery and remembrance.
