Despite the apparent luxury of paddling downstream to get there, the Corps of Discovery, led by Lewis and Clark, had difficulty reaching the mouth of the Columbia.

The place names at this confluence reflect their troubles in early November 1805–Dismal Nitch, Blustery Point, Point Distress,and Stormy Point, to name a few! The Corps set up camp on narrow and rocky places along the river, and were disturbed by winter gales blowing in off the ocean. After crossing the American continent, the Corps found the final few miles to be truly challenging. Still, there is a record of their excitement in glimpsing the ocean they were searching for. “men appear much Satisfied with their trip beholding with estonishment the high waves dashing against the rocks & this emence ocian”.

Clark and his party hiked along Baker Bay. They crossed Cape Disappointment, and continued up the coast. On November 19, the party hiked north, following a long sandy beach (Long Beach). In the distance, Clark could see a point of land, which he named Point Lewis [now Leadbetter Point].