Recreational Activities
31 - Final Observation of River
  Ridge
from which Clark took his final
observation of the River Canyon is in the midground.
Pine Creek rapids, showing the fury of the
Salmon River Toby warned Clark against.
August 23, Clark recalls, "...passed over
a gap in the Mounts. from the top of which I could See the hollers
of the river for 20 miles to a verry high Mountain on the left,
at which place my guide made Signs that the bad part...of the river
Comsd. And much worst than any I saw..."
Lewis in his journal, reviews why Clark decided to abandon his
pursuit of the river route, "...after the river
reached this mountain it continued it's rout to the North between
high and perpendicular rocks, roling foaming and beating against
innumerable rocks which crouded it's channel; that then it penetrated
the mountain through a narrow gap leaving a perpendicular rock on
either side as high as the top of the mountain which he beheld.
that the river here making a bend they could not see through the
mountain, and as it was impossible to decend the river or clamber
over that vast mountain covered with eternal snow, neither himself
(Toby) nor any of his nation had ever been lower in this direction..."
From this point, one can see the ridge about one mile to the northeast
where Clark was standing when he determined it was truly an impassable
canyon.
The ridge Clark took his final observation of the canyon is located
at Mile 16.5, Forest Road 30, just above the large flat where Salmon
River Estates is located. There are no interpretive signs or other
facilities here, however, an interpretive sign is in place at the
Pine Creek Rapids bridge, located several miles below Shoup, Idaho.
Spring Creek Campground
is located 16.9 miles west of the North Fork Ranger Station along
Forest Road 30 (Salmon River Road). It is fee campground providing
5 trailer or tent sites, drinking water, toilets and a boat ramp.
Fishing, swimming and rafting opportunities are available locally.
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