What were Lewis and Clark's reaction upon seeing the Pacific Ocean?

Answer 1

Lewis and Clark, sadly, did not actually see the Pacific Ocean. They landed at the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria, Oregon on November 7 1805. The day was rainy and foggy, and the Columbia River estuary was four or five miles wide and they could not see the Oregon side of the river or Point Adams at the mouth of the river in the distance. But they were close enough to have reached their goal.

Clark makes a quick note the their reaction at the end of the journal entry for November 7, 1805:

"Great joy in camp, we are in view of the ocean, this great Pacific Ocean which we have been so long anxious to see. The roaring or noise made by the waves breaking on the rocky shores (as I suppose) may be heard distinctly."

Answer 2

Upon seeing the Pacific Ocean, Lewis and Clark were filled with a sense of accomplishment and wonder. They were thankful for reaching the final leg of their journey and marveled at the vastness and beauty of the ocean. They also took note of the strategic and economic potential the coastal region held for the United States.