The Lewis and Clark story is one of America’s great adventures. In 2002 Bob Weis and Dr. Herman J. Viola led a tour of more than 20 contemporary Americans on the most challenging portion of the Lewis and Clark trek—across the Bitterroot Mountains of Idaho.
No where did Lewis and Clark and their team come closer to tragedy and death that in this section of the mountains. For this documentary noted author, historian and Lewis and Clark expert Dr. Viola led a team to remote historic sites, recalling the perils of the journey.
Writer Producer Bob Weis led a documentary team along the journey. Many areas of the mountains are so remote they can only be reached by horseback. The result is a stunning visual experience back into the landscape as it was experienced by Lewis and Clark. For history buffs, it is an exciting retelling of the challenges of the expedition and its relevance to Americans today. For people who love the outdoors it is an insider’s visit to some of the most beautiful and unspoiled sites in the American landscape.
Had the Nez Perce not provided the corps with horses and aid, they would not have survived. In fact, traveling by horseback is still the best and sometimes only way to trek through these difficult mountains. For the documentary, the entire group traveled by horseback, including all visitors, guides, and camera crew—for 9 days, often 12 hours a day.
The crew also filmed exciting behind the scenes sequences on the Nez Perce Reservation, inside Monticello, The Library of Congress, and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.
The film has been recognized for a special screening by the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. It has also been exhibited in film festivals around America including the Fort Lauderdale Film Festival.
In Their Footsteps--Lewis and Clark
A Film by Bob Weis
With Dr. Herman J. Viola
Narrated by Liane Hansen
Written and Produced by Bob Weis
Executive Producer Ned McLeod
Associate Producer Tim Steinouer
Director of Photography Cameron Wallace
Edited by Greg Jones
Original Music by Alex Clements and Dave Wallace
