Ancient Crossroads at Pataha Creek

When the Lewis and Clark Expedition left the Columbia River on April 30, 1806, they were on that they termed ‘good roads’. They were following ancient travel ways as guided by their Native American hosts. At the Ancient Crossroads, two trails came together to form an area called “Three Forks”.

It was here on May 4, 1806 that the expedition left Pataha Creek for the trail leading them to the Snake River. Pataha is a Nimìipu (Nez Perce) placename perhaps originating from the words meaning “bush creek.” Ancient roads rarely followed along brushy creeks and rivers but instead traversed the ridgelines and plains above them. This is why the ‘Good Road’ climbed up to a plain and then descended to Alpowa Creek and the Snake River.

The pullout here has ample parking, but the trail traces are on private property.