Throughout the expedition, the ultimate goal was always the Pacific Ocean.

November 7, 1805. Clark: Great joy in camp we are in view of the Ocian, this great Pacific Octean which we been so long anxious to See. and the roreing or noise made by the waves brakeing on the rocky Shores (as I suppose) may be heard disi[n]ctly [They haven't actually reached the ocean, they are in the Columbia estuary and their camp is near Pillar Rock from where the ocean cannot be seen.]

More about the people

November 7, 1805. Clark: Those people call themselves War-ci-â-cum and Speake a language different from the nativs above with whome they trade for the Wapato roots of which they make great use of as food.

November 17, 1805. Clark: This Chinnook Nation is about 400 Souls inhabid the countrey on the Small rivers which run into the bay below us and on Ponds to the N.W. of us, live principally on fish and roots,     they are well armed with fusees and Sometimes kill Elk Deer and fowl.

Photo courtesy Lower Columbia River Estuary Partnership.

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