Clark's Dismal Nitch, Washington, United States
3.5 (15 reviews) Spent < 1 hour Ranking #1 in Chinook Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Educational sites
Lewis & Clark's nightmare is a 21st Century pleasant rest stop with historical information
Dismal Nitch was an important part of Lewis & Clark expedition. They had made their way across the country, only to be stuck here for nearly a week waiting out a fierce winter storm. When we visited in May, the sun was shining, the sky was blue and it was hard to envision what they went through two centuries ago. Dismal Nitch is now a very pleasant highway rest stop. Situated right on the Columbia River, it has fantastic views of the river, the ships passing by, and the town of Astoria on the Oregon side. There are several picnic tables, all with river views, and a nice large grassy area. The restrooms were clean and tidy. We enjoyed reading the several informational signs here. They have a lot of information about Lewis & Clark. Take the time to stop, read and learn about those courageous explorers. Wet, cold and miserable, it's no wonder they named this camp "Dismal" Nitch!
Address
230 State Route 401, Chinook, WA 98614-1351
Website
http://www.nps.gov/lewi/planyourvisit/dismal.htm
Current local date and time now
Friday, May 10, 2024, 14:59
User Ratings
3.5 based on (15 reviews)
Reviews
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4Ernie S 5:00 PM Sep 25, 2017
Is This the Most Scenic, Most Historic Rest Stop in the Country?
If you travel much you know the most you can expect at most rest stops are clean, functional facilities, a bit of shade and a quick return to the road. But Clark's Dismal Nitch is far from ordinary. First of all this is a truly historic place, the spot where the Lewis & Clark expedition took refuge during their epic, history-changing adventure to the coast. There are lots of signs sharing this historic time. Just as impressive, the rest stop has great views of the Columbia River and the city of Astoria with its cool bridge. On the day I stopped the salmon season was in full swing and there were so many boats in the water it seemed like you could probably step from one to the next and cross the river without getting wet.
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3Michael O 5:00 PM Sep 14, 2019
Dismal Nitch
It really is just a Rest Stop. However, you can look down the cliffs , and appreciate the horrible position Lewis and Clark were in.
