Lewis & Clark State Historic Site in Hartford, Illinois.

By Richard Hunt, Executive Director, Lewis & Clark Trail Alliance 

Since 1969, the Lewis & Clark Trail Alliance (LCTA) has been the nation’s leader for preserving the Lewis & Clark Trail and the sharing of its stories. We have worked diligently to deepen public understanding of Lewis & Clark history as a foundation for building an informed and connected society. By exploring this past, including its triumphs, challenges, and overlooked stories, we engage our present and inspire a brighter future.

Our national alliance coordinates Lewis & Clark resources across the country, inspiring lasting public engagement and promoting a more knowledgeable, healthier society. Our approach centers on building meaningful connections and shared experiences, with active engagement at the heart of everything we do. We strive to inspire individuals and foster a vibrant community rooted in participation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to our mission.

The Lewis & Clark Trail Alliance (LCTA) is stepping into new territory—virtual territory. We’re excited to introduce Undaunted Reality, our new initiative to bring the landscapes and stories of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail to life through immersive virtual reality (VR).

For years, our work has focused on research, partnerships, and programs that help people connect with the Trail. But we all know the challenge: how do you reach audiences who may never stand on the banks of the Missouri or hike the Bitterroots? How do you meet younger generations who expect digital experiences alongside traditional interpretation? That’s where VR comes in.

Why VR matters for the Trail
Anyone who’s worked in interpretation knows that place matters. Standing where history happened can be transformative. But travel is not always possible. Virtual reality doesn’t replace that sense of place—it extends it. With Undaunted Reality, we want to offer access where travel can’t and add depth to the experience for those who do make it to the Trail.

Decision Point near Loma, Montana.

Imagine being able to:

  • Step into a 1805 Corps of Discovery campsite and see how daily life unfolded.
  • Stand beside York and hear his story told in his own voice.
  • Take part in a Council with Native nations, where multiple perspectives come alive.
  • Explore landscapes that are at risk today, understanding the urgency of preservation.

The goal isn’t flashy “edutainment.” It’s thoughtful, historically grounded storytelling that takes advantage of new tools.

How we’re approaching it
We know VR isn’t just about cool visuals—it’s about interpretation. That means we’re committed to collaborating with Native partners, historians, interpreters, and artists to make sure these stories are told with authenticity and respect. Undaunted Reality will connect with our existing Lewis and Clark Trail Experience
(LCTE) digital platform, so that VR experiences aren’t stand-alone novelties but part of a bigger ecosystem of maps, stories, and educational resources.

An invitation to the AASLH community

Here’s where you come in. We know that many of you in the AASLH community have already experimented with digital interpretation, and some of you are tackling questions about VR right now. We’d love to learn from your insights.

We’re especially interested in ideas and advice around:

  • Striking the balance between immersion and historical accuracy.
  • Handling sensitive cultural content responsibly in virtual spaces.
  • Designing experiences that are accessible and inclusive for as many users as possible.
  • Thinking about VR not as a substitute for visitation, but as a spark that inspires people to go further.

Looking ahead
Undaunted Reality is in its early stages, but the potential is exciting. VR can’t take the place of standing on the Trail—but it can invite people in, deepen their curiosity, and encourage them to explore history and place in new ways. If you’ve got experience, ideas, or even just curiosity about VR and interpretation, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out, share your thoughts, and help us shape Undaunted Reality into something that serves history, communities, and audiences well. After all, Lewis and Clark weren’t the only ones called to explore uncharted territory. We’re on that journey too—and we’re inviting you to walk with us.

How to Connect
To share your ideas, offer feedback, or get involved with the Undaunted Reality initiative, please contact:
Richard Hunt
Executive Director, Lewis & Clark Trail Alliance
[email protected]