The Annual Gathering of the Lewis & Clark Trail Alliance
June 21–24, 2026
I wished for the pencil of Salvator Rosa or the pen of Thompson,
that I might be enabled to give to the enlightened world some just idea of this
truly magnifficent and sublimely grand object
—Meriwether Lewis, Great Fall of the Missouri, June 13, 1805
The Portage Route Chapter welcomes you to the 2026 Lewis & Clark Trail Alliance Annual Gathering, hosted June 21–24 in Great Falls, Montana—administrative home of the Lewis and Clark Trail Alliance and the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center.
Join us at one of the most historically significant locations along the Lewis and Clark Trail. Explore the sites, discover new research, and share your passion for the Lewis and Clark story.
Registration
Registration Includes admission to all conference sessions, scheduled outings, the opening reception, and the awards banquet.
- Early Bird Member Registration: $495 (price changes to $550 on May 1)
- Non-Member Registration $550 (includes a one–year LCTA membership)
Lodging
- Our two hotels are approximately one-quarter mile apart.
- Conference sessions will be at the Hilton Garden Inn and Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center.
- Shuttle is service available between lodging and all meeting venues.
- Complimentary parking is available at both hotels.
- Rates are based on arrival/departure between June 19 and June 25.
- Group Rate Cutoff Date: May 20, 2026 (both hotels)
Hilton Garden Inn
2520 14th St SW
Great Falls, MT 59404
(406) 452-1000
Rate: 2 Queen Beds or 1 King Bed at $189.00 plus tax
Amenities: Onsite bar and restaurant
To Book: Call hotel directly and mention the Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage Foundation group block rate or go to https://group.hiltongardeninn.com/7dsbde.
Hampton Inn by Hilton
2301 14th St SW
Great Falls, MT 59404
(406) 453-2675
Rate: 2 Queen Beds or 1 King Bed at $169.00 plus tax
Amenities: Complimentary hot breakfast, free WiFi, pool, and fitness center.
To Book: Call hotel directly and mention the Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage Foundation group block rate or go to: https://group.hamptoninn.com/1x03pw.
Extend Your Stay
Great Falls offers far more than can be experienced in four days. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early or stay longer to explore the region including
- 36th Annual Lewis and Clark Festival, June 19–20
- Three-day White Cliffs canoe trip, offered by Lewis and Clark Trail Adventures
- Tower Rock and Gates of the Mountains Boat Trip (on your own)
- Grand opening Montana Historical Society Museum (Helena), June 26–27
- Fort Benton Summer Celebration, June 26–27
Pre- and Post- Tours
- Guided hike to Lewis and Clark Pass (Strenuous)
- Watch for additional offerings
Additional Details
- Silent Auction: Contact Georgia Kline at info@lewisandclark.org or 406-454-1234.
- Vendor, Exhibitor, Authors: Contact Kelly Paladino at kpaladino@lewisandclarkfoundation.org , or 406-452-5661