Standing proudly on the south bank of the Snake River in Granite Lake Park lies a granite monument with a tale to tell - the WA State Historical Marker #36, or Lewis & Clark Enter Washington. At an impressive height of 42 inches, this marker is made from Lake Superior green granite and bears witness to the expeditions historic entrance into present-day Washington on October 10, 1805.

As you approach the marker, the air around it crackles with anticipation. The sun casts dappled light upon its surface, highlighting each chiseled word telling of the adventurers who once trod these banks. The roar of the river echoes in your ears, a reminder of the challenges faced by Lewis and Clark as they navigated treacherous waters and an untamed wilderness to reach this very spot.

Around you, open-air interpretive displays bring the story to life. A dugout canoe sits nearby, allowing you to imagine how these intrepid explorers would have traversed these waters over two centuries ago. The echoes of their journey reverberate through time, weaving a tapestry of courage and determination that continues to captivate visitors from all corners of the world.

This land was once home to the Nez Perce Indians, who fiercely defended their ancestral territory against relocation to the Umatilla Reservation in Oregon. Their spirit lingers here, imbuing the air with a sense of reverence for the past and a deep respect for the rich history that unfolded on this very ground.

Today, the Lewis & Clark Expedition stands as an enduring symbol of American expansion, a testament to the indomitable human spirit that conquered the unknown and opened up the vast expanses of the American West. The WA State Historical Marker #36 serves as a poignant reminder of this pivotal moment in history, a monument to those who dared to dream beyond the horizon and whose legacy continues to inspire us all.