The Oregon-California Trails
Missouri • Kansas • Nebraska • Wyoming • Idaho • Oregon • Utah • Nevada • California
Printable Oregon-California Trails Map 
The Cherokee Trail
Oklahoma • Kansas • Colorado • Wyoming
The Southern Emigrant Trails to California
Kansas • Arkansas • Oklahoma • Texas • New Mexico • Colorado • Utah • Arizona • California • Mexico
Missouri
Missouri has ever been the gateway for new discoveries. St. Louis is a good place to start with the inspiring Gateway Arch National Park with the Museum of Western Expansion and the nearby historic Old Courthouse. Jefferson City features the beautiful Missouri State Capitol with the Missouri State Museum and nearby historic Jefferson Landing.
1) Independence» Great American stories start in Independence. The National Frontier Trails Museum tells the story of Westward expansion as thousands of pioneers formed wagon trains. Known as the Queen City of the Trails, Independence became the hub for pioneers before they ventured West. The National Frontier Trails Museum is the only museum in the nation certified by the National Park Service as an interpretive site for five National Historic Trails: Lewis and Clark, Santa Fe, Oregon, California, and Mormon Pioneer. The National Frontier Trails Museum is a history museum, interpretive center, and research library devoted to the diverse history of the West and the people who made it. Visitors are treated to unique artifacts, period reproductions, Western art murals, and historical journal entries from the pioneers. You can walk through the museum or set up special tours with our museum guides for a more in-depth historical experience. Go to: https://independencemo.gov/government/city-departments/parks-rec/national-frontier-trails-museum.
2) Kansas City» Kansas City’s Westport District was where many pioneers disembarked from riverboats to begin their adventure along the Santa Fe, Oregon, or California Trails. Nearby Pioneer Park at 4059 Broadway celebrates the opening of the western trails with statuary and signage. The Eighty-Fifth and Manchester Ruts, at 7558 East 85th Street have the remains of the Santa Fe, Oregon, and California Trail wagon paths. Schumacher Park at 6601 East 93rd Street has interpretive wayside signage and an undefined trail route in native grasses and wildflowers. Go to VisitMo.com
3) St. Joseph» The legendary Pony Express began in St. Joseph. Today, the downtown area features the Pony Express National Museum and the historic Patee House, once a grand hotel, now a spectacular museum. The St. Joseph Riverfont Landing was where pioneers and Pony Express riders boarded ferries to cross the Missouri River. Go to VisitMo.com
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Independence Parks and Recreation National Frontier Trails Museum
Kansas
4) Kansas City» The Grinter Place State Historic Site at 1420 South 78th Street is the home of Moses Grinter who established a ferry to carry pioneer wagons across the Kansas River.
5) Leavenworth» Known as the “First City of Kansas” incorporated in 1854, Leavenworth became the “jumping off point” for the opening of the West. The Frontier Army Museum at historic Fort Leavenworth houses one of the best collections of 18th century military weapons and equipment. The Buffalo Soldier Monument memorializes the African American troops who helped bring settlers to the western frontier. The historic downtown area features great shopping and a classic carousel at the C.W. Parker Museum. View vintage homes dating from the mid-1800’s and tour the 1882 Carroll Mansion. Visitors can immerse themselves in the self-guided historic Leavenworth and Fort Leavenworth interactive wayside tours. Leavenworth Landing is a scenic city park overlooking the Missouri River with iconic sculptures depicting key chapters in the city’s history. Go to: VisitLeavenworthKS.com
6) Olathe» I-35. The Lone Elm Campground, at 167th and Lone Elm, is where many pioneers camped during their first night west of the Missouri River. Today, the park features pioneer wagon swales, interpretive signs, and a campground.
7) Topeka» I-70 At the Kansas State Capitol and the Kansas History Museum visitors can see a Cheyenne tipi and exhibits that portray the state’s colorful frontier history.
8) Wamego» Junction of U.S. 24 and KS 99. Visitors can follow the trail east of town at Oregon Trail Nature Park and the Louis Vieux Cemetery. Visitors can see Oregon Trail Park at Scott Springs north of Wemego on KS 99
9) Manhattan» The Flint Hills Discovery Center is a “must-see” attraction with interactive exhibits of Kansas history and the last major patch of unbroken tallgrass prairie. The Museum of Art + Light in downtown Manhattan has interactive and immersive exhibits for visitors of all ages. Manhattan is the home of Kansas State University and includes the picturesque Kansas State University Gardens. Aggieville is a great off-campus haven for food, fun, and eclectic shopping. The Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art features Kansas and Midwestern art, and the Sunset Zoo includes animals in their natural habitats. The Konza Prairie Biological Station features live bison in their native prairieland. Local libations can be purchased and enjoyed at Liquid Art Winery and Estate and the Tallgrass Taphouse. Tuttle Creek Lake, one of Kansas’ great outdoor destinations, is accessible from US 24 near Manhattan.
Go to: VisitManhattanKS.com
10) Marysville» U.S. 76 and U.S. 77. Historic Trails Park features a larger-than-life statue of a Pony Express horse and rider, the Pony Express Home Station Number 1 Barn and Museum, and interactive murals depicting Kansas history.
11) Alcove Springs Park» Located six miles south of Marysville. This scenic park was once the campsite for Oregon and California Trail pioneers. Today the park features natural springs, easy-to-follow trails, pioneer names carved into the rocks, trail markers, and interpretive panels.
12) Hanover» KS-243, 6.9-miles south of Nebraska border. The Hollenberg Pony Express Station State Historic Site is a restored Pony Express station. Today the site includes a visitor’s center and a historic frontier home.
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Nebraska
13) Rock Creek Station State Historical Park» Seven miles southeast of Fairbury. Established as a road ranch in 1857 that became famous when James “Wild Bill” Hickok began his infamous career there in 1861 when it was a Pony Express station. Today visitors can still see the deep ruts cut by many Oregon-and-California-bound wagons. The park also includes a visitor center, the re-constructed barn, toll house, cabins, and 350-acres of scenic prairie.
Go to: OutdoorNebraska.gov
14) Beatrice» U.S. 77 and U.S. 136. The Gage County Historical Society and Museum is located inside the historic 1906 Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy train station. The museum is situated on the grounds where “Wild Bill” Hickok was tried for the 1861 Rock Creek Station murders. The museum features an 1887 CB&Q caboose and exhibits that highlight the pioneers, railroads, and industries of Gage County. The Historical Society oversees the Tri-County Oregon Trail Marker, near Lanham, Nebraska. This triangular stone monument was erected in 1913 by the Daughters of the American Revolution. It marks the point where the Oregon Trail enters Nebraska from Kansas and is located 1.75 miles northwest of Lanham, at the intersection of West Stateline and Southwest 142nd roads. Four miles northwest of Beatrice is the Homestead National Historical Park. This National Park Service park commemorates the Homestead Act of 1862. That law allowed individuals to claim up to 160 acres of federal land in exchange for living on and cultivating it. The park includes a museum, a restored 1867 cabin, a one-room school, and a three-mile walking trail. Go to: GageCounty-History.org.
15) Nebraska City» Home to six unique museums. The Old Freighters Museum is housed in the home office of the Russell, Majors, & Waddell Freighting Company building. Today, the exhibits in this museum demonstrate not only the history of the shipping firm, but also the history of westward movement along the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails. The Missouri River Basin Lewis & Clark Interpretive Trail Visitor Center features exhibits of the wildlife and plants that the Expedition discovered, keelboat displays, and live historical demonstrations. Visitors can also see the authentic recreation of the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s 1803 Camp Dubois fort with a dramatic view of the Missouri River valley. Nebraska City is also the home of J. Sterling Morton Arbor Lodge State Historical Park where the Arbor Day tree-planting holiday began. Nearby are the Arbor Day Farm, a nature-based theme park, and Kimmel Orchard with delicious fresh foods to take home. The Kregel Windmill Museum is the only intact windmill factory museum in the U. S. Explore, eat, and sleep in Nebraska City.
Go to: VisitOtoeCounty.com.
16) Omaha» Downtown Omaha offers direct access to the Missouri River, home to the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, and the hands-on science center Kiewit Luminarium. Connected to all of this is The RiverFront, a 72-acre green space made up of three parks with walking trails, a lakeside pier, amphitheater, skating ribbon and playgrounds. The nearby Old Market Entertainment District features unique shopping and delicious dining along Cobblestone streets. The Durham Museum, housed in the Art Deco-designed Union Station, explores the region’s rich history, while the Joslyn Art Museum features 12,000 works spanning 500 years of creativity across three buildings and a sculpture garden. In South Omaha, visitors can explore Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, named the No. 1 Zoo in the country by USA TODAY readers, and the nearby Lauritzen Gardens, a year-round botanical retreat. Go to: VisitOmaha.com
The Kanesville Memorial is at 222 East Broadway in Council Bluffs, Iowa. This inspiring memorial includes exhibits and statues honoring the sacrifices made by the members and the families of the Mormon Battalion and other events which occurred in historic Kanesville.
The Mormon Trail Center at Winter Quarters is at 3215 State Street in Omaha, Nebraska. The center features interactive exhibits, reconstructed settings, artifacts, and a film featuring the Mormon Battalion and Winter Quarters Era from 1846-48. Across the street is the Mormon Pioneer Cemetery where hundreds of Latter-day Saint pioneers who died between 1846-48 are laid to rest and memorialized with a heroic statue by Avard Fairbanks. The Winter Quarters Omaha Temple is near the cemetery.
For more information, go to: ChurchofJesusChrist.org/VisitMormonTrailCenter.
17) Grand Island» I-80 and U.S. 34. “La Grande Isle” was a landmark to the early pioneers as a large island with trees and vegetation. The Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer features an extensive collection of pioneer and Native American artifacts. The Mormon Island State Recreation Area is located immediately north of I-80 at the Grand Island exit 312. The park offers camping, fishing, and hiking. Go to: OutdoorNebraska.gov
18) Hastings » U.S. 34 south of I-80 and Grand Island. The Hastings Museum includes exhibits of the Pawnee and Sioux nations, trail-related artifacts, and dioramas of wildlife of the Plains. West on U.S. 6/34 is Minden and the Harold Warp Pioneer Village with 50,000 historical objects and a recreated pioneer town.
19) Fort Kearny State Historical Park» 11020 V Road, south of Kearney. The famed frontier stockade fort has been recreated and hosts historic reenactments that include a blacksmith/ carpenter shop, parade grounds, powder magazine, and a visitor center. The park is open year-round from 8 a.m. to sundown. Visitors can picnic, camp and hike at adjacent Fort Kearny State Recreation Area, which is also one of the best places to see the annual crane migrations in the spring.
Go to: OutdoorNebraska.gov
The Archway spanning over I-80 at Kearney is a unique heritage attraction that takes visitors on an immersive journey to portray pioneer experiences on the Great Platte River Road, the main route for the pioneers.
20) North Platte» I-80 and U.S. 30. Here, members of Brigham Young’s vanguard Mormon Pioneer company invented and attached a roadometer (odometer). The Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park and State Recreation Area include the home and barn of the world-famous Wild West showman Buffalo Bill. The restored buildings feature one-of-a-kind artifacts and exhibits. Open year-round from 8 a.m. to sunset. Go to: OutdoorNebraska.gov.
21) Ash Hollow State Historical Park» west of Ogallala’s Lake McConaughy on U.S. 26.
Visitors can see covered wagon ruts etched in the rugged and scenic bluffs. Ash Hollow also features a visitor center complete with educational exhibits and artifacts, a gift shop, a Native American cave, a rock schoolhouse, pioneer graveyard, and a public picnic area, Visitors can hike nine miles along the original Oregon-California Trail and experience the beauty, vastness, and isolation of the landscape. Go to: OutdoorNebraska.gov.
22) Courthouse and Jail Rocks» US 26/Bridgeport/NE 88. Oregon, California, and Mormon pioneers viewed and described these natural landmarks in their diaries.
23) Chimney Rock National Monument and Visitors Center» Chimney Rock was one of the most recognized landmarks along the pioneer trails. The visitor center museum has exhibits on
pioneer westward migration and copies of Captain John C. Fremont’s exploration maps. Open from May 1 to September 28.
24) Scotts Bluff National Monument» near Gering served as a natural landmark for Native Americans and Oregon, Mormon, and California Trail pioneers. Today the site includes a visitor center and trail museum, hiking trails, and wagon swales that are still visible. The Legacy of the Plains Museum is southeast of the monument on Old Oregon Trail Road and features exhibits on the Native Americans, pioneers, and wildlife of the High Plains.
Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area – Situated on a rocky escarpment of the Wildcat Hills just south of Scottsbluff, the rugged and beautiful area features evergreen-studded canyons and a vast system of trails. Go to: outdoornebraska.gov
Wyoming
25) Fort Laramie National Historic Site» on U.S. 26 west of Torrington. Fort Laramie today features twelve restored buildings, a visitor center and museum that recounts the history of the famous trading post and supply fort for the Mormon, Oregon, and California Trails.
26) Guernsey» On US 26. Today’s trail travelers can see and stand in some of the best-preserved wagon wheel ruts made by the pioneer wagons at the Oregon Trail Ruts State Historic Site and National Historic Landmark south of town. A paved walkway with signs loops around the trail. Further south on South Guernsey Road is the Register Cliff State Historic Site, one of three large “registers of the desert” where the pioneers carved their names
and messages into the soft sandstone.
The Guernsey and Platte County area also includes Guernsey State Park, Hartford, Glendo, Glendo Lake and State Park, Wheatland, and Chugwater. For more information on what to see and do in Platte County, go to: WYPlatteCo.com.
27) Casper» On I-25. The Fort Caspar/Platte Bridge Station and Fort Caspar Museum at 4001 Fort Caspar Road includes the reconstructed fort, and a full-size replica of the Mormon Ferry where the advance Mormon Pioneer company made a difficult crossing of the North Platte River and established a ferry service.
National Historic Trails Interpretive Center at 1501 North Poplar Street in Casper, Wyoming. Visitors can begin their journey with the 18-minute multimedia program that combines authentic pioneer journal quotes with light, sound, and images to re-create the pioneer experience. Visitors can also explore interactive galleries, outside demonstration areas, and a gift shop. Ask at the front desk for information on ranger-guided programs, living history demonstrations and self-guided activities at the front desk. The Center is free to the public and open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information and activities, go to: BLM.gov/learn/interpretive-centers/national-historic-trails-interpretive-center.
28) Bessemer Bend National Historic Site» Southwest of Casper on WY 220. This was the site of a difficult river crossing.
29) Independence Rock State Historic Site» West of Alcova on WY 220 at Exit 63. Named the “Great Register of the Desert” with more than 5,000 pioneer names and symbols carved into the granite. Visitors can follow footpaths to the cliff and nearby trail ruts.
30) Martin’s Cove» WY 220. The Mormon Handcart Historical Site and Visitor Center at Fort Seminoe Road and the Tom Sun Ranch. The area includes site of Martin’s Cove where the Martin handcart company took shelter during the deadly blizzard of 1856.
31) Sixth Crossing Visitor Center» US 287 at Sweetwater Station Junction. This center commemorates the rescue of 400 pioneers of the Willie Handcart company during the severe winter of 1856. The visitor center features statuary, exhibits and handcarts to use on adjacent hiking trails.
32) South Pass City State Historic Site and South Pass Historic Site» Further south on WY 28 is the South Pass Historic Site, the historic flat pass through the Rocky Mountains where the Mormon Pioneer and California Trails turned southwest to the Salt Lake Valley, and the Oregon pioneers went northwest into today’s Idaho. Today the pullout includes a rest area, historic marker, and pioneer wagon ruts near the parking lot.
33) The Lander Road» that avoided desert and offered more water and timber. At Farson on WY 28 turn right on US 191 for 36 miles, then take WY 351 to US 189 to Kemmerer. Visitors can see the old wagon road parallel to WY 351.
34) Kemmerer» US 181 and US 30. Today’s US 30 follows a popular Oregon and California
Trail route to Fort Hall, near today’s Pocatello, Idaho.
35) Lombard Ferry» WY 28. This was the main crossing for the Green River where Mormon pioneers operated a ferry. Today the site includes a pullout and interpretive signs. A short hike on a paved trail which leads to a replica of the ferry.
36) Fort Bridger State Historic Site» I-80 at the Fort Bridger exit/Main Street. Famed Mountain Man Jim Bridger’s fort was a popular stop and supply post on the Mormon Pioneer and California Trails, the Pony Express, Overland and Cherokee Trails, and the old Lincoln Highway. Today the park offers museum exhibits and self-guided tours of historic buildings
during the summer.
37) Evanston» The Uinta County Museum features exhibits on the historic pioneer trails, the railroad, and the Lincoln Highway.
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Platte County Chamber of Commerce
National Historic Trails Interpretive Center Casper, Wyoming
Idaho
38) Montpelier» US 30. At the Oregon-California Trail Portal — Big Hill southeast of Montpelier, visitors can see the ruts from thousands of Oregon and California Trail pioneer wagons roadside from pullouts on US 30 beginning at Milepost 440. At the National Oregon/California Trail Center in Montpelier visitors can take a one-hour simulated Wagon Trail Adventure that includes historically accurate interpretive areas and live actors. Open Labor Day to Memorial Day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
39) Soda Springs» U.S. 30. Pioneers marveled at the carbonated water and natural geysers. Today a 100-foot-tall geyser of spring water erupts every hour at Geyser Park. Go to: IdahoHighCountry.org.
40) Hudspeth Cutoff» U.S. 30. Look for a pullout at milepost 376.2, about 17 miles west of Soda Springs, for a state historical sign that describes the difficult shortcut used by California ‘49ers.
41) Lava Hot Springs» U.S. 30. This was a popular rest stop for Forty-niners on the Hudspeth Cutoff. The hot springs provided hot water for bathing and washing clothes. Today the community features a variety of natural hot-spring resorts, hotels, and attractions. Go to: IdahoHighCountry.org.
42) Pocatello/Chubbuck» I-15. The Fort Hall Replica & Commemorative Trading Post and Bannock County Historical Museum is located off Exit 67 from the I-15 Business Loop. The original Fort Hall was established in 1834 as a fur trade post and then became a pioneer supply post. The Fort Hall Replica & Commemorative Trading Post is a full-sized replica and features structures and artifacts on display. Next door is the Bannock County Historical Museum that exhibits early life in the west, and the area’s railroad origins and history.
43) Fort Hall Reservation» 25 miles north on I-15 exit 80. The Shoshone-Bannock Tribal Museum in Fort Hall displays Shoshone and Bannock tribal history, culture, and art. A live buffalo from the tribe’s herd is brought in during the summer months.
Go to: IdahoHighCountry.org.
44) American Falls» I-86 west of Pocatello. This scenic location is where pioneers wrote how the Snake River dropped 50 feet.
45) Massacre Rocks State Park» I-86 five miles southwest of American Falls at Exit 28. Both settlers and natives made use of the area for its easy access to the Snake River. Two miles west of the park is the Register Rock State Historic Site where pioneers etched their names on large boulders. A visitor center and pioneer wagon ruts are nearby.
THE PARTING OF THE TRAILS
46) Raft River Crossing» I-84 at Exit 15, the Raft River Exit. This is where the Oregon Trail pioneers continued west to Oregon, and the California Trail pioneers turned southwest toward present-day Utah and Nevada. For visitors following the California Trail, take I-84 southeast into Northern Utah to I-15, then south to Ogden, Brigham City, and Salt Lake City.
47) Castle Rocks State Park and the City of Rocks National Reserve» From I-84, take Exit 216 on ID-77 south to Connor Junction and go west on Elba-Almo Road for 16-miles to Almo. Follow the signs to City of Rocks. Today the Reserve includes pioneer wagon ruts and pioneer
inscriptions on granite boulders.
THE OREGON TRAIL IN IDAHO TO OREGON
48) The Milner Ruts and the Milner Historic Recreation Area» West of Burley, off U.S. 30. This historic site is located nine miles west of Burley on the south bank of the Snake River. The
recreation area, managed by the Bureau of Land Management, includes a segment of the Oregon Trail that was once a pioneer campground and now features a pavilion, interpretive exhibits, restrooms, and boat launch.
49) Three Island Crossing State Park» South of I-84 at Glenns Ferry. The park is located at one of the few places where Oregon Trail pioneers could cross the Snake River. Park visitors can take a self-guided tour to view wagon ruts, replica Conestoga wagons, and visit the Oregon Trail History and Education Center.
50) Bonneville Point Recreation Area» I-84 exit 64, Black Creeks Road. This is where Captain Benjamin Bonneville and his expedition first saw the valley he named “Les Bois” that today is Boise.
51) Boise» I-84. Cultural attractions include the Idaho State Museum and the Boise Art Museum.
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Oregon
52) Farewell Bend State Recreation Area» Northwest of Ontario, and south of Huntington, take Exit 353 off I-84 and follow US 30. Exhibits at an Oregon Trail kiosk describes the pioneers’ last crossing of the Snake River.
53) Baker City» National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center at 22267 Highway 86, in Baker City, Oregon. This center brings to life the historic journey of pioneers who traveled westward on the Oregon Trail in the 19th Century. Set on a hillside with stunning views of the Blue Mountains, the center features hands-on exhibits, life-sized displays, and a replica wagon camp. Visitors can begin their journey at the Trails Center then continue through the interactive galleries and the outdoor trails. The site also includes remnants of the historic Flagstaff Gold Mine and original Oregon Trail wagon ruts. For more information, go to: blm.gov/learn/interpretive-centers/national-historic-oregon-trail-interpretive-center.
54) Deadman Pass Rest Area» Westbound I-84 Exit 228. This is the site of conflict between the pioneers and native people in the 1870s. The Oregon Trail interpretive kiosk exhibit also describes the pioneers’ descent down from the Blue Mountains.
55) Tamâstslikt Cultural Institute» I-84 south of Pendleton. This is the only Native American-owned museum on the Oregon Trail. The exhibits explore the history of the Native people of the area, and the impact of the Oregon Trail as the Native people experienced it.
56) Whitman Mission National Historic Site» West of Walla Walla, Washington, off U.S. 12. This is the site of the Whitman Mission and the graves of Marcus and Narcissa Whitman, who were early Oregon Trail advocates and pioneers. This National Park Service site includes a visitor center, small museum, and a paved path with exhibits.
57) The Dalles» On I-84. Nestled along the mighty Columbia River, The Dalles offers visitors sweeping Gorge vistas and a deep dive into the stories that shaped the Pacific Northwest. At the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, explore the region’s journey from Ice Age floods to 10,000 years of Native American heritage, the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the Oregon Trail. Step back in time on re-created 1900s streets, then wander nature trails showcasing native plants and wildlife. Downtown, vibrant murals bring local legends to life, while Riverfront Park invites picnics, birdwatching, and water sports along the scenic shoreline. Art enthusiasts will love the Mayhill Museum of Art, featuring works by Auguste Rodin, and the Dalles Art Center, a hub for local creativity. History buffs can tour the 1880s Fort Dalles Museum or visit the Dalles Dam Visitor Center for a look at modern engineering. Cap your adventure with a tasting at one of more than 30 wineries in the area. Discover more at: ExploreTheDalles.com.
58) The Barlow Road» Turn off I-84 at OR Hwy 35 at Hood River and go south around the Mount Hood Recreation Area until it meets U.S. 26. Follow U.S. 26 until Sandy, then take OR Hwy 211/Eagle Creek Sandy Hwy 172 to Philip Foster Farm at Eagle Creek. The Barlow Road was a toll road for pioneers who wanted to bypass the dangerous Columbia River rapids. The route today includes a scenic drive and Oregon Trail historic sites.
59) Oregon City» South of Portland at the northwest bank of the Willamette River. At The End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center visitors can see outdoor exhibits with stories from the Oregon Trail, and inside visitors walk through immersive galleries recreating the challenges and
settlement of Oregon’s Willamette Valley.
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Utah
60) Echo Canyon» Along I-80. Today’s I-80 follows the 24-mile historic route used by mountain men, the Mormon and California Trail pioneers, the Pony Express, the Overland Stage, the Union Pacific Railroad, and the Old Lincoln Highway.
61) Echo» I-80 and I-84. The Echo Town Interpretive Area includes wayside markers on the Pony Express, the Mormon Pioneer Trail, and the history of the area.
62) Henefer» On I-84. The Donner-Reed Party’s Weber River Crossing is east of town off South Echo Frontage Road. Henefer Pioneer Trails Park, adjacent to the Main Street/I-84 Business route, includes wayside exhibits on the area’s Donner-Reed Party, Mormon Pioneer, and Pony Express histories.
63) Salt Lake City» The Salt Lake Valley became the destination for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints pioneers journeying along the Mormon Pioneer Trail from 1847 to 1869. Today, Temple Square is Utah’s top visitor attraction. Visitors can stroll through the world-famous gardens surrounding the Temple and see the two visitor centers that celebrate the area’s
history. The nearby Tabernacle is home to the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir and is one of the most acoustically sound buildings in the world. Families can trace their own ancestry at the Family History Library, while the Church History Museum features interactive exhibits that tell the story of the Mormon Church, including the Mormon Trail.
THE BIDWELL-BARTLESON TRAIL
The early California Trail pioneers followed two northern routes around the Great Salt Lake. The Bidwell-Bartleson Trail route marks the difficult journey of the first pioneer wagon train to reach California in 1841. The party journeyed from Soda Springs, in present-day Idaho, traveling southwest to traverse the Great Salt Lake Basin over two months without a guide and relying only on secondhand information. Today, UT 30 off I-84 approximates their route between Snowville and Lucin, Utah.
THE SALT LAKE CUTOFF
The Salt Lake Cutoff branched out from Salt Lake City and followed a northwestern route that ran along today’s Utah northern state border to the City of Rocks in Idaho, before going southwest to Nevada. Today’s visitors can take I-15 north to see historic sites along this route between Ogden and Brigham City.
THE HASTINGS CUTOFF
Most California Trail ‘49ers took the Hastings Cutoff trail spur from Fort Bridger in
present-day Wyoming to Echo Canyon, near present-day Henefer, UT, down through
Emigration Canyon to present-day Salt Lake City.
64) Great Salt Lake Viewing Area» 17 miles west of Salt Lake City at mile marker 101. This roadside turnout includes historic markers for a view across the lake and Stanbury Island. The historical marker commemorates mountain man and trailblazer
Jedediah Smith.
Nevada
65) West Wendover» The West Wendover Welcome Center is a great place to start your adventure in Nevada.
66) Wells» This town is the gateway to the historic California Trail wagon ruts at Willow Creek to the north and to the south at Angel Lake. The pioneers sought the natural waterholes they called the Humboldt Wells at the headwaters of the Humboldt River after long days passing through the arid desert west of the Salt Lake Basin. Visitors can discover this history at the Trail of the 49ers’ Interpretive Center.
67) Elko» California Trail Interpretive Center at 1 Trail Center Way, Elko, Nevada. Curious about the California Trail? While many are familiar with the Oregon Trail, the California Trail is equally legendary, filled with stories of hope, hardships, and transformation. Driven by hopes of fertile land, religious freedom and gold, their journey was far from easy. At the Trail center, explore multimedia exhibits, life-sized dioramas, original art, and videos. Enjoy nearly a mile of easy hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Ruby Mountains, South Fork Canyon, and the Humboldt River. The Center is free to the public. The Trail Center and surrounding grounds are open Wednesday through Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed for major holidays. For more information, go to: CaliforniaTrailCenter.org.
68) Carlin» I-80. The town is near the steep Carlin Canyon that challenged California Trail pioneers and the first transcontinental railroad. The pioneers resumed following the Humboldt River west of Gravelly Ford. The wayside exhibit is at the Beowawe Rest Area at mile 258 (Westbound).
69) Battle Mountain» I-80. Visit the Battle Mountain Cookhouse Museum for unique
exhibits and history.
70) Winnemucca» The Humboldt Museum is near the site where wagon trains forded the Humboldt River on their way to California.
APPLEGATE AND NOBLES TRAIL ROUTES
These spurs on the California Trail led pioneers to northern California and to southern Oregon. Today the routes pass through the Black Rock Desert-High Rock Canyon Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area (NCA) in northwest Nevada. Visit: www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/nevada/black-rock-desert-high-rock-canyonemigrant-trails-nca for information and maps.
71) Rye Patch State Recreation Area» South of Imlay, exit I-80 at the Rye Patch Reservoir Road. This 22-mile-long reservoir is a great place to picnic, camp, swim, water-ski and fish with waterfowl and wildlife that abound. Open year round. The northern end of the reservoir was the location of Lassen Meadows where pioneers found water, rested, and cut hay for their livestock before attempting to cross over the high Sierra Nevada mountains. Go to: Parks.NV.gov.
TRUCKEE ROUTE
Today’s I-80 route follows the California Trail’s Truckee Route through present day Reno/Sparks and enters California east of Truckee and Donner Lake.
72) Lovelock» I-80. Today’s trail travelers can see the Marzen House Museum.
CARSON ROUTE
The California Trail’s Carson Route today roughly follows US 95 at Exit 83 to US 50 west to South Lake Tahoe.
73) Sparks/Reno» On I-80. This area is a gaming and entertainment destination in northern Nevada. History buffs can see exhibits on the California Trail at the Nevada Historical Society Museum.
74) Carson City» South of I-80 and Reno on I-580. Nevada’s Capital City offers fun, history, and the gateway to breathtaking Lake Tahoe. The Nevada State Museum features exhibits on early Native American tribes, frontier firearms, mining, and the minting of money.
75) Mormon Station State Historic Park» Take U.S. 395 south of Carson City, then exit on Jacks Valley Road and go south to Genoa. This was the site of Nevada’s first permanent, non-native settlement and served as a trading post on the Carson Route of the California Trail. Today the park features a reconstructed version of the original 1851 trading post which serves as a museum with artifacts. Go to: Parks.NV.gov.
76) Virginia City» Northeast of Carson City. Go east on U.S. 50, then north on NV Hwy 341. Visitors can step back in time to the days of the Wild West and Nevada’s silver mining boom days.
77) Fort Churchill State Historic Park» South of US 50 at Silver Springs on US 95. Fort Churchill was built in 1860 to provide protection for early settlers, pioneers, and the Pony Express and telegraph lines. Visitors can walk designated trails to see the fort’s ruins. The park also includes the renovated Buckland Station, a way station for pioneers on the Overland Route. Situated on the Carson River, the park is an idyllic place for camping, hiking, and bird watching and canoeing. Go to: Parks.NV.gov
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THE BECKWOURTH PASS NORTH OF RENO ON US 395 TO CALIFORNIA HIGHWAYS 70 AND 49
78) Beckwourth Pass» Located 15-miles east of the town of Beckwourth on CA 70. Jim Beckwourth was the African American mountain man who opened one of four mountain passes
through the Sierra Nevada range for pioneer wagon trains in 1851.
79) Nevada City» CA Hwy 49. Gold Rush days are on display at the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum, the historic Nevada Theater, and the classic Bourn House.
80) Grass Valley» CA Hwy 49. This area includes the classic Holbrooke Hotel, local mining history at the North Star Powerhouse Mining Museum, and Empire Mine State Historic Park, the site of the oldest, largest, deepest, and richest gold mine in California.
I-80/TRUCKEE TRAIL ROUTE
81) Truckee» On I-80. Named for the Paiute Indian leader who helped guide pioneers through the desert and over the Sierras on their westward journey to Gold Country.
82) Donner Memorial State Park» West of Truckee on I-80. This is the site where the ill-fated Donner Party were trapped during the brutal winter of 1846-47. Today the park includes a visitor center and museum and an inspiring pioneer monument.
83) Auburn» I-80 and CA Hwy 49. After gold was discovered in 1849 at the nearby Auburn Ravine, this picturesque town was quickly founded in 1850. Today visitors can enjoy a walking tour of the former Gold Rush boomtown at Old Town.
84) Sacramento» I-80. Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park and the State Indian Museum are in downtown Sacramento at 26th and K streets. The fort is a re-creation of the first non-Indian settlement in California’s Central Valley, and the first stop for many early California Trail pioneers. Old Sacramento State Historic Park is off I-5 at the J Street exit in downtown Sacramento. This recreated early California Gold Rush community features over 50 historic buildings that include a colorful assortment of museums, dining, and shopping
CARSON TRAIL ROUTE FROM SOUTH LAKE TAHOE/ U.S. HWY 50
85) Placerville» U.S. Hwy 50. This fun gold rush town features a historic main street for self-guided tours, the El Dorado County Museum, the Fountain-Tallman Museum, and the Gold
Bug Park and Mine.
86) Coloma» CA Hwy 49 north of Placerville. Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park is where visitors can see where gold was first discovered in California and today can pan for gold on the American River.
87) Amador County» South of Placerville on CA Hwy 49. Plymouth is in the heart of Amador County’s Wine Country with more than 40 wineries in the area. Amador City features the historic Imperial Hotel and the Amador Whitney Museum. The scenic community of Sutter Creek is 100% walkable.
88) Angels Camp» South of Jackson on CA Hwy 49. This former Gold Rush boomtown is best known by Mark Twain’s story, The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County. Today this history is celebrated at the Mark Twain Trading Post and during the annual Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee held the third week in May.
89) Columbia State Historic Park» South of Angels Camp – take Parrotts Ferry Road from CA Hwy 49. The Gold Rush town of Columbia has been restored and recreated with historic
buildings, museums, and fun shopping and dining.
90) Sonora» CA Hwy 49. This historic city features the Tuolumne County Museum and the Veterans Memorial Hall and Military Museum.
91) Jamestown» Southeast of Sonora on CA Hwy 49. Visitors won’t want to miss Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, a day-use park featuring an authentic railroad roundhouse, a repair shop for steam locomotives, and a depot store with one-of-kind gifts.
92) Mariposa» South of Jamestown on CA Hwy 49. Mariposa is at the southeast entry to spectacular Yosemite National Park. Mariposa is also home to the Mariposa Museum and History Center and the California State Mining and Mineral Museum, where explorers John C. Fremont and Kit Carson opened the first ore mill.