Exhibits at Travelers’ Rest

Inside the Travelers’ Rest Visitor Center you’ll find permanent and traveling exhibits that tell the story of Lewis and Clark and the history of the area.

Lewis & Clark exhibits include archaeological finds from the Travelers’ Rest site, replica clothing and equipment from the Expedition, dioramas of the Travelers’ Rest campsite and the Expedition’s approach to Glade Creek, and historical firearms. A collection of modern and contemporary beadwork, musical instruments, and powwow regalia by diverse indigenous artists highlights the traditional crafts of Native Americans. Natural history displays include skulls and pelts of bear, beaver, and birds. Also on display is a running list of species sighted at Travelers’ Rest State Park in the current year.

Visions of Lewis & Clark

A collection of 40 kites inspired by the Lewis & Clark Expedition and the many people, places, and animals they encountered on their journey arrives in Missoula County in April.

Look for kites on display in the Travelers’ Rest State Park Visitor Center, Region 2 Headquarters of Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks, the Missoula Public Library, Missoula Butterfly House, the University Center, (and the new expansion of the Missoula Airport in June!)

Age of Play: A Look at 19th Century Games

A companion exhibit to the Visions of Lewis & Clark kites offers a look at games played at the time of the Expedition and still familiar today. Bone dice and dominoes, playing cards, cribbage are displayed alongside images of people at play. Indigenous games like Hoop and Arrow and Ring the Stick are also included. A highlight of the exhibit is a ninepin set handcrafted by local artisan Ward McCaughey. “Age of Play” was curated by Jacob Shropshire, candidate for a masters degree in history at the University of Montana, and invaluable intern at Travelers’ Rest State Park.

Seasons of the Salish

This exhibit focuses on the Seasonal Round to show how the Séliš and Ql̓ispé people moved through the landscape to gather resources throughout the year. It includes several artifacts made in the tradition way including a cedar bark basket and Bitterroot digging stick. An update to this exhibit was completed in 2023 and was funded in part by the Lewis & Clark Trail Stewardship Endowment.

Trekker Kids Corner

Young visitors can use their senses to explore history in this exhibit designed just for them. Hands-on replicas and an interactive matching game encourage children to compare items used by Lewis & Clark to contemporary gear. Exhibit panels invite them to consider the sounds, smells, and tastes of the 19th century. Youngsters can try on coats, pack a bag, or curl up in a tipi to read a story.