Follow in the footsteps of over 250,000 emigrants who traveled to the gold fields and rich farmlands of California during the 1840s and 1850s: the greatest mass migration in American history. The California National Historic Trail is over 5,000 miles long and covers portions of 10 states. Step into history along more than 1,000 miles of ruts and traces from travelers and their overland wagons.

A white canvas wagon sits in front of a large rock buttress with mountains in the distance.

Wagon at Register Rock in City of Rocks National Reserve

A still creek winds through brown rolling hills.

A creek in Carlin Canyon, Nevada on the California Trail

A dirt road passes through sagebrush and a white post with a mountain in the background.

Trail ruts on through Humboldt Wells in Nevada

A rock buttress with a notch in it surrounded by sagebrush flats.

Devil's Gate, Wyoming

Pine trees partly obscure a distant mountain lake with snow-capped mountains.

View of West Pass on Carson Route

California

The California National Historic Trail is not a clearly marked hiking trail. Instead it is a corridor that passes through communities, urban areas, public lands, and Wilderness. The route travels across a variety of land ownerships and management, including private land. Each location varies as to the hours of operation and access. Please contact individual trail sites before your visit for more information.

California National Historic Trail

Junior Ranger Program

<p>Junior Ranger activity can be completed virtually at home, or after visiting a site along the California Trail. Worksheets can be submitted electronically or by mail.<br /> <br /> Junior ranger worksheets activites are completed using the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/cali/planyourvisit/trail-brochures.htm">California Trail National Historic Trail official brochure</a>. This brochure is also available at various sites along the California Trail.</p>

<p>Any age is welcome to beome a California Trail junior ranger!</p>

<p>There is no fee for the junior ranger program.<br /> <br /> Entrance fees will vary by location. Please check with the individual site for more information.</p>

A junior ranger badge on a picture of a sandy desert.

California Trail Junior Ranger

<p>Junior Ranger activity can be completed virtually at home, or after visiting a site along the California Trail. Worksheets can be submitted electronically or by mail: </p> <ul> <li>Email us (at <strong>ntir_Junior_Ranger@nps.gov</strong>) a photo of your completed worksheet. Be sure to include your <strong>full name</strong> and <strong>address in the email</strong>, as well as the worksheet. We'll check your answers and send you an exclusive Junior Ranger badge!</li> <li>Or you can mail your worksheet to: (<em>expect a few weeks for response time</em>)</li> </ul> <p><strong>National Trails<br /> National Park Service<br /> 50 W. Broadway, Suite 950<br /> Salt Lake City, Utah 84101</strong></p>

<h2>How to Become a Trail Junior Ranger</h2> <p><strong><em>The </em><a href="https://www.nps.gov/cali/index.htm">California National Historic Trail</a><em> has it's own </em></strong><a href="https://www.nps.gov/cali/learn/kidsyouth/junior-ranger.htm">Junior Ranger Program</a><strong><em>!</em></strong></p> <h3 style="margin-left: 40px;"><strong>1. </strong><a href="https://www.nps.gov/cali/learn/kidsyouth/upload/CALI-Junior-Ranger-508.pdf">Download the Junior Ranger Program.</a></h3> <h3 style="margin-left: 40px;">2. Complete the activities.</h3> <p style="margin-left: 40px;">Use the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/cali/planyourvisit/trail-brochures.htm">official map and guide</a> text and <a href="https://www.nps.gov/cali/index.htm">California National Historic Trail</a>.<br /> <em>You can complete it virtually <strong>or</strong> after visiting a California Trail site.</em><br />  </p> <h3 style="margin-left: 40px;">3. Email us (at ntir_Junior_Ranger@nps.gov) a photo of your completed worksheet.</h3> <p style="margin-left: 40px;">Be sure to include your full <strong>name</strong>, <strong>address</strong>, and telephone number <strong>in the email</strong>, in addition to the worksheet photo. We'll check your answers and send you an exclusive Junior Ranger badge!</p> <hr /> <p><strong>Or you can mail your worksheet to:</strong></p> <p>(<em>expect a few weeks for response time</em>)<br /> <br /> <strong>National Trails<br /> National Park Service<br /> 50 W. Broadway, Suite 950<br /> Salt Lake City, Utah 84101</strong></p>

<p>Pet policies vary by location. Please check with individual sites before visiting.</p>

Learn about the California Trail and earn your junior ranger badge! This activity can be completed virtually or after visiting a site along the California National Historic Trail. Worksheets can be submitted either electronically or by mail. Take a look and start exploring the trail today!

Become a California Trail Junior Ranger

Trails

Westward Expansion

Birdwatching

Bird with red head searches for food in tree

<p>Emigrants on the California Trail were introduced to many new plants and animals as they made their journey west. With over 2,000 miles of trail, through countless habitats, there are a number of places where you can have a similar experience!<br /> <br /> The following places along the trail are noted for their birdwatching opportunities. <em>When planning a visit, please make sure to check with the individual location about visitation hours and other details.</em></p> <h2>National Wildlife Refuges</h2> <p> </p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/bear-lake/visit-us/activities">Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/bear-river-migratory-bird/visit-us/activities">Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/grays-lake/visit-us/activities">Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/modoc/visit-us/activities">Modoc National Wildlife Refuge</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/seedskadee/visit-us/activities">Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/william-l-finley/visit-us/activities">William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/stillwater/visit-us/activities">Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge</a></li> </ul> <h2>National Forests</h2> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/btnf/recreation/natureviewing/?recid=71389&actid=62">Bridger National Forest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/uwcnf/recreation/natureviewing/?recid=8980&actid=62">Cache National Forest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/ctnf/recreation/natureviewing/?recid=53653&actid=62">Caribou-Targhee National Forest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd929006.pdf">Sawtooth National Forest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/uwcnf/recreation/natureviewing/?recid=8980&actid=62">Wasatch National Forest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/modoc/recreation/natureviewing/?recid=71240&actid=62">Modoc National Forest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/plumas/recreation/natureviewing/?recid=11182&actid=62">Plumas National Forest</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/tahoe/recreation/natureviewing/?recid=55444&actid=62">Tahoe National Forest</a><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/rogue-siskiyou/recreation/natureviewing/?recid=69400&actid=62">Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forests</a></li> </ul> <h3 data-class="InPageNav-toggle" data-controls="6418C56E-B2BE-4A94-979F51D6868CD251-inpage-nav-links" data-hide-header="false" data-text-active="Sites by State <span class='visuallyhidden'>Navigation</span> <i class='fa fa-angle-up'></i>" data-text-inactive="Sites by State <span class='visuallyhidden'>Navigation</span> <i class='fa fa-angle-down'></i>" data-tracking="{"type":"event","category":"PYV Component","action1":"Open","action2":"Close","label":"Navigation In Page"}">SITES BY STATE</h3> <h2>California</h2> <ul> <li> <h3><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/sunflower-flat.htm">Sunflower Flat</a></h3> <ul> <li>Sites: California National Historic Trail, Lassen Volcanic National Park</li> </ul> <p>Step foot on a spur of the California National Historic Trail. The wagon tracks have since faded but the story is forever etched on the landscape. This route welcomed a portion of the more than 250,000 emigrants who traveled to the gold fields and rich farmlands of California during the 1840s and 1850s in the greatest mass migration in American history.</p> </li> </ul> <h2>Idaho</h2> <ul> <li> <h3><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/city-of-rocks-national-reserve-the-california-trail.htm">City of Rocks National Reserve - the California Trail</a></h3> <ul> <li>Sites: California National Historic Trail, City Of Rocks National Reserve</li> </ul> <p>The City of Rocks National Reserve is a National Historic Landmark associated with the mass overland westward migration. Emigrants traveling the California Trail would reach Circle Creek in the City of Rocks and nooned or camped. Some of these emigrants left their names on the rocks along the trail within the Reserve. The reserve is a great place to view wildlife along the trail.</p> </li> <li> <h3><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/massacre-rocks-state-park.htm">Massacre Rocks State Park</a></h3> <ul> <li>Sites: California National Historic Trail, Oregon National Historic Trail</li> </ul> <p>Massacre Rocks State Park received its name from a grouping of boulders that created a narrow break through which the Oregon Trail passed. Emigrants, fearing that American Indians might be waiting in ambush, named the boulders "Massacre Rocks." Skirmishes between emigrants and Shoshone Indians did occur in August 1862, but these took place east of the park. The state park still contains visible trail ruts.</p> </li> </ul> <h2>Utah</h2> <ul> <li> <h3><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/bonneville-salt-flats-recreation-area.htm">Bonneville Salt Flats Special Recreation Management Area</a></h3> </li> </ul>   <p style="margin-left: 40px;">The Bonneville Salt Flats are a 30,000 acre expanse of hard, white salt crust on the western edge of the Great Salt Lake basin in Utah. This recreation area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Hastings Cutoff, part of the California Trail, traversed the salt flats.</p> <nav aria-label="Pagination" role="widget"> <ul> </ul> </nav>   <h2>Wyoming</h2> <ul> <li> <h3><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/north-platte-river-crossing.htm">North Platte River Crossing</a></h3> <ul> <li>Sites: California National Historic Trail, Fort Laramie National Historic Site, Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail, Oregon National Historic Trail, Pony Express National Historic Trail</li> </ul> <p>North Platte River Crossing was one of numerous crossings used by trappers, traders, American Indians, and emigrants to reach Fort Laramie. In order to enter the fort, two rivers had to be crossed- the Laramie River and the North Platte River. Over the years, at least nine different sites were used to cross the Laramie and at least four different sites were used to cross the North Platte.</p> </li> <li> <h3><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/bessemer-bend-national-historic-site.htm">Bessemer Bend National Historic Site</a></h3> <ul> <li>Sites: California National Historic Trail, Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail, Oregon National Historic Trail, Pony Express National Historic Trail</li> </ul> <p>Bessemer Bend National Historic Site, also known as Red Buttes Crossing, is one of the places where travelers forded the North Platte River, then 300 yards wide, for the last time and started the push toward the Sweetwater River. This crossing was used mostly in the early years of the emigration.</p> </li> </ul> <h2>Nebraska</h2> <ul> <li> <h3><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/platte-river-whooping-crane-maintenance-trust.htm">Platte River Whooping Crane Maintenance Trust</a></h3> <ul> <li>Sites: California National Historic Trail, Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail, Oregon National Historic Trail</li> </ul> <p>Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center offers a variety of tour options to make sure your crane viewing experience is truly magical. Crane Trust river blinds are located along the largest Sandhill Crane roost in the world. Located on the Platte River, near the emigrant trails, this trail site will give you a wildlife experience close to those who traveled the trails in the 1800s.</p> </li> <li> <h3><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/nebraska-audubon-society-national-conservation-area.htm">Nebraska Audubon Society National Conservation Area</a></h3> <ul> <li>Sites: California National Historic Trail, Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail, Oregon National Historic Trail</li> </ul> <p>Iain Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary focuses on conservation of the Platte River ecosystem and the birds that rely on it. Do you want to get closer to an authentic emigrant trail experience? Visit this trail site to view wildlife and the preserved Platte River ecosystem.</p> </li> </ul> <nav aria-label="Pagination" role="widget"> <ul> </ul> </nav>   <h2>Kansas</h2> <ul> <li> <h3><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/alcove-spring.htm">Alcove Spring</a></h3> <ul> <li>Sites: California National Historic Trail, Oregon National Historic Trail</li> </ul> <p>Alcove Spring was a favorite trail campsite near the Independence Crossing of the Big Blue River. Often, emigrants would spend several days here, waiting for the swollen waters of the river to drop to levels that were safe for fording. They found the area picturesque, with the spring originating in an unusual rock formation and falling over a rock ledge into a pool below. Emigrants carved their names in the rocks.</p> </li> </ul> <h2>Missouri</h2> <ul> <li> <h3><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/santa-fe-park.htm">Santa Fe Park</a></h3> <ul> <li>Sites: California National Historic Trail, Oregon National Historic Trail, Santa Fe National Historic Trail</li> </ul> <p>Santa Fe Park preserves approximately one-quarter mile of Oregon, California, and Santa Fe trail ruts in the heart of the city of Independence, Missouri. These ruts align with trail ruts found a half mile north on the Bingham-Waggoner estate, a 19.5 acre museum and park, that is open to the public.</p> </li> <li> <h3><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/schumacher-park.htm">Schumacher Park</a></h3> <ul> <li>Sites: California National Historic Trail, Oregon National Historic Trail, Santa Fe National Historic Trail</li> </ul> <p>Travelers on the Oregon, California, and Santa Fe trails passed through what is now Schumacher Park as they journeyed through the prairie of the great plains. They passed through the south end of the park in an east to west direction during the mid-1800s. Today, no traces of these trails (no ruts or swales) remain in the park, but the park does provide a good example of how this part of Kansas appeared in the 19th century.</p> </li> </ul>

Emigrants on the California Trail were introduced to many new plants and animals as they made their journey west. With over 2,000 miles of trail, through countless habitats, there are a number of places where you can have a similar experience! The following places along the trail are noted for their birdwatching opportunities. Check them out!

Birdwatching on the California Trail

Animals

Birds

Self-Guided Tours - Auto

Plan a roadtrip to see Oregon Trail wagon ruts along the Oregon Trail. Trail sites are listed by state, so you can find a place near you, or plan a mult-day trip. 

California Hill

<p>The Oregon and California trails provided pathways to the Pacific for fur traders, gold seekers, missionaries, and emigrants. From 1841 to 1861, more than 300,000 emigrants followed this route from the Midwest to fertile Oregon farmlands or California gold fields—trips that took five months to complete.<br /> <br /> Over the years, thousands of wagon wheels and hooves churned the earth as they traveled west. Covered wagons struggled up hills in the mud left behind by torrential summer downpours. Emigrants fought to slow oxen down steep hillsides as they dug their hooves in to break. All of this activity left a discernable trail in the hard rock and a wider swale in softer soil. Though the wagon trains didn't all follow the same route, sometimes using cutoffs, the evidence of the tremendous amount of westward travelers can still be seen today.<br /> <br /> Their traces are often referred to as <strong>wagon ruts</strong> and they can appear a variety of ways depending on the type of soil and the continued effects of water erosion. In some places, the ruts might look like a very obvious ditch, and in others they might be a wider, shallower, drainage. <br /> <br /> One of the best ways to experience the Oregon Trail is by taking a step back in time while visiting a trail rut. Luckily, there are still places where you can have that experience today. Take a look at the the list below and plan your visit to the mid-1800s today! <br /> <br /> <em>These trail sites are working hard to protect these important historical resources. Please remember to treat these special trail resources carefully and with respect when you visit.</em> <br /> <br />  </p> <div class="panel panel-default collapsible-item" id="Collapsible1611182871059"> <div class="panel-heading collapsible-item-heading" id="headingCollapsible1611182871059" role="tab"> <h4 class="panel-title collapsible-item-title"><a href="#collapseCollapsible1611182871059"><span class="glyphicon glyphicon-chevron-down"> </span></a> <a href="#collapseCollapsible1611182871059">Missouri</a></h4> </div> <div aria-labelledby="headingCollapsible1611182871059" class="panel-collapse collapse collapsible-item-collapse" id="collapseCollapsible1611182871059" role="tabpanel"> <div class="panel-body collapsible-item-body"><br /> <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/national-frontier-trails-museum.htm">National Frontier Trails Museum</a><br /> <br /> The historic trails passed through this area in the field that is directly across from the National Frontier Trails Museum. Evidence of the trails can still be seen in the field in the form of swales, which marks the exact route used by emigrants as they traveled westward.<br />   <p><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/santa-fe-park.htm">Santa Fe Park</a><br /> <br /> Santa Fe Park preserves approximately one-quarter mile of Oregon, California, and Santa Fe trail ruts in the heart of the city of Independence, Missouri. These ruts align with trail ruts found a half mile north on the Bingham-Waggoner estate, a 19.5 acre museum and park, that is open to the public.</p> <p><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/wieduwilt-swales-85th-and-manchester.htm">Wieduwilt Swales (85th and Manchester)</a><br /> <br /> Wieduwilt Swales are the grassed-over evidence of three historic trails that passed through the area, the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon. Thousands of wagons, carts, livestock, and people traveled on these trails, which created ruts and left deep depressions in the earth. After the traffic stopped, vegetation slowly reclaimed the muddy and barren ground of the trails, creating the swales that are still visible today.</p> <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/minor-park.htm">Minor Park</a> <p>Emigrants heading west from Independence encountered their first river crossing at Minor Park, a preview of the many water crossings to be negotiated on their long journey west. Here, wagon trains crossed the Blue River by fording, since the first bridge across the river wasn't constructed until 1859. Numerous emigrants wrote about or mentioned the crossing in their diaries.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="panel panel-default collapsible-item" id="Collapsible1611182871057"> <div class="panel-heading collapsible-item-heading" id="headingCollapsible1611182871057" role="tab"> <h4 class="panel-title collapsible-item-title"><a href="#collapseCollapsible1611182871057"><span class="glyphicon glyphicon-chevron-down"> </span></a> <a href="#collapseCollapsible1611182871057">Kansas</a></h4> </div> <div aria-labelledby="headingCollapsible1611182871057" class="panel-collapse collapse collapsible-item-collapse" id="collapseCollapsible1611182871057" role="tabpanel"> <div class="panel-body collapsible-item-body"><br /> <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/prairie-village-santa-fe-trail-park.htm">Prairie Village Santa Fe Trail Park</a><br /> <br /> Prairie Village Ruts marks the location of the Oregon, California, and Santa Fe Trails in the form of rounded depressions in the ground called swales. These swales were once part of a well-defined path, most equivalent to a modern day dirt road, that was created as thousands of oxen, cattle, and wagons traveled across the land. They eroded and compacted the ground, which created ruts. Over time, the ruts were weathered into the more gently sloping swales visible today.<br />   <p><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/lone-elm-campground.htm">Lone Elm Campground</a><br /> <br /> Lone Elm Campground is where many Oregon, California, and Santa Fe trail travelers spent their first night west of the Missouri River. For several decades, starting in 1821, this site served as a campground and rendezvous point for people traveling along these trails. The wagon swales created by the travelers can still be seen in the park, where the overland trails crossed a creek.</p> <p><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/alcove-spring-swales.htm">Alcove Spring Swales</a><br /> <br /> The hilly area around Alcove Springs made travel difficult for emigrants. Heavy wagons being pulled forward by livestock dug into the ground, creating ruts. These ruts were deepened and lengthen by wagons wet from river crossings, which made the ground muddy. The ruts were maintained, and grew, by the thousands of wagons that traveled through this area. They can still be seen today.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="panel panel-default collapsible-item" id="Collapsible1611182871055"> <div class="panel-heading collapsible-item-heading" id="headingCollapsible1611182871055" role="tab"> <h4 class="panel-title collapsible-item-title"><a href="#collapseCollapsible1611182871055"><span class="glyphicon glyphicon-chevron-down"> </span></a> <a href="#collapseCollapsible1611182871055">Nebraska</a></h4> </div> <div aria-labelledby="headingCollapsible1611182871055" class="panel-collapse collapse collapsible-item-collapse" id="collapseCollapsible1611182871055" role="tabpanel"> <div class="panel-body collapsible-item-body"><br /> <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/ofallons-bluff-at-sutherland-rest-area.htm">O'Fallon's Bluff at Sutherland Rest Area</a><br /> <br /> O'Fallon's Bluff is a section of bluffs about 20 miles long that sits next to the south side of the Platte River. The bluffs close proximity to the river forced the emigrant trails onto a narrow path that went up and over the bluffs. Over time, as thousands of wagons, emigrants, and livestock went up the rise, ruts were carved into the dry bluffs. These ruts are still visible today at Sutherland Rest Area. <p><br /> <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/california-hill.htm">California Hill</a><br /> <br /> California Hill reveals the difficult decisions emigrants had to make when choosing their route to Oregon. Near North Platte, Nebraska, the Platte River splits into two major forks. Several crossing sites were used, but the Upper Crossing was the most important because it led to the best approach to the North Platte. However, this meant traveling over California Hill, which necessitated a steep climb of 240 feet in 1½ miles.</p>   <p><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/ash-hollow-state-park-windlass-hill-area.htm">Ash Hollow State Park- Windlass Hill Area</a><br /> <br /> Windlass Hill is scarred by deeply eroded ruts cut by thousands of wagons sliding downhill with their wheels locked on the Oregon Trail. Due to the steepness of the grade, the wagons could easily travel at speeds that were not good for them or the livestock pulling the wagons. They were slowed by locking the wheels, which prevented the wheels from turning and increased friction.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="panel panel-default collapsible-item" id="Collapsible1611182871053"> <div class="panel-heading collapsible-item-heading" id="headingCollapsible1611182871053" role="tab"> <h4 class="panel-title collapsible-item-title"><a href="#collapseCollapsible1611182871053"><span class="glyphicon glyphicon-chevron-down"> </span></a> <a href="#collapseCollapsible1611182871053">Wyoming</a></h4> </div> <div aria-labelledby="headingCollapsible1611182871053" class="panel-collapse collapse collapsible-item-collapse" id="collapseCollapsible1611182871053" role="tabpanel"> <div class="panel-body collapsible-item-body"><br /> <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/bedlam-ruts.htm">Bedlam Ruts</a><br /> <br /> The Bedlam Ruts are a fine stretch of Oregon Trail ruts and swales that visitors can walk. This Trail segment is on 40 acres of undeveloped public lands jointly managed by the Bureau of Land Management and the National Park Service (Ft. Laramie National Historic Site).<br />   <p><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/independence-rock-state-historic-site.htm">Independence Rock State Historic Site</a><br /> <br /> Independence Rock was the most-noted landmark of the wagon trails west of Fort Laramie. The rock derived its name from a party of fur trappers who camped and celebrated Independence Day near the rock on July 4, 1830. Eventually, thousands of emigrants camped at the foot of this 1,900 feet long by 850 feet wide granite outcrop. They carved their names and messages into the granite, using Independence Rock as a bulletin board for Oregon Trail.</p>   <p><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/south-pass.htm">South Pass</a><br /> <br /> South Pass , a 20 mile wide, gently sloping gap in the Rocky Mountains, was perhaps the most important landform along the emigrant trails. It opened the West to settlement by providing a route over the Continental Divide that wagons could negotiate. Everyone who followed the Oregon Trail through Wyoming used this sagebrush and grass covered saddle. A wide and deep path was created as thousands of wagon wheels and livestock hooves steadily eroded the ground.</p> <p><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/oregon-trail-ruts-state-historic-site.htm">Oregon Trail Ruts State Historic Site</a><br /> <br /> Oregon Trail Ruts State Historic Site , also called the Guernsey Ruts, is located where the geography of the area forced the Oregon Trail to change course. At this point, the Trail was blocked from continuing along the North Platte River by a steep ridge of sandstone rock. It had to go up and over the ridge in order to continue heading west.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="panel panel-default collapsible-item" id="Collapsible1611182871050"> <div class="panel-heading collapsible-item-heading" id="headingCollapsible1611182871050" role="tab"> <h4 class="panel-title collapsible-item-title"><a href="#collapseCollapsible1611182871050"><span class="glyphicon glyphicon-chevron-down"> </span></a> <a href="#collapseCollapsible1611182871050">Idaho</a></h4> </div> <div aria-labelledby="headingCollapsible1611182871050" class="panel-collapse collapse collapsible-item-collapse" id="collapseCollapsible1611182871050" role="tabpanel"> <div class="panel-body collapsible-item-body"><br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/oregon-trail-park-and-marina.htm">Oregon Trail Park and Marina</a><br /> <br /> Oregon Trail Park and Marina contains a short segment of original Oregon Trail wagon swales. The Trail, marked by white carsonite markers, heads up from the park's lake, Alexander Reservoir, and crosses the park's entrance road. Look for the swales in the grass on either side of the entrance road near its junction with U.S. 30.<br />   <p><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/massacre-rocks-rest-area-historical-site.htm">Massacre Rocks Rest Area- Historical Site</a><br /> <br /> Remnants of the Oregon and California Trails can be found by continuing on the trail at Massacre Rocks Rest Area to the historical site . To reach this site, walk past the Snake River overlook and through the tunnel that goes underneath both lanes of the interstate highway. When you exit the tunnel, follow the trail to right. It will take you first to a series of interpretive wayside exhibits on Oregon Trail history.</p> <p><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/milner-recreation-area-swales.htm">Milner Historic Recreation Area Swales</a><br /> The Oregon Trail ruts at Milner Historic Recreation Area cut across the loop road here in a couple of places. The shallow trough-like swale can be seen extending on both sides of the road through the grassy landscape dotted with sagebrush. Small white posts labeled "Oregon Trail" mark the position<br /> of the swale.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="panel panel-default collapsible-item" id="Collapsible1611182871048"> <div class="panel-heading collapsible-item-heading" id="headingCollapsible1611182871048" role="tab"> <h4 class="panel-title collapsible-item-title"><a href="#collapseCollapsible1611182871048"><span class="glyphicon glyphicon-chevron-down"> </span></a> <a href="#collapseCollapsible1611182871048">Oregon</a></h4> </div> <div aria-labelledby="headingCollapsible1611182871048" class="panel-collapse collapse collapsible-item-collapse" id="collapseCollapsible1611182871048" role="tabpanel"> <div class="panel-body collapsible-item-body"><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/echo-meadows.htm">Echo Meadows</a><br /> <br /> The primary route of the Oregon Trail passed through Echo Meadows from 1847-1860. Just four miles from the Umatilla River crossing, emigrants did not stop or camp here, but they left signs of their passing nonetheless. Deep wagon swales were created as the emigrants passed through the meadows, which remain to this day.<br />   <p><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/national-historic-oregon-trail-center-trail-ruts.htm">National Historic Oregon Trail Center- Trail Ruts</a><br /> <br /> The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is located at the top of Flagstaff Hill. The Oregon Trail reached this hill by going through the small valley, known as Virtue Flat, that lies just south of the center. Traveling through this valley was no easy task. Emigrants had to fight their way through shoulder-tall sagebrush just after spending four or five difficult days ascending Burnt River. <br />  </p> </div> </div> </div>

One of the best ways to experience the Oregon Trail is by taking a step back in time while visiting a trail rut. Luckily, there are still places where you can have that experience today. Take a look at the the list below and plan your visit to the mid-1800s today!

Go See Oregon Trail Ruts

Hiking

<p>Fees being charged will vary by location. Please check with the individual site for more information.</p>

People walk up a through a sage brush covered ravine.

<h3>Idaho</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/massacre-rocks-state-park.htm">Massacre Rocks State Park</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/ciro/learn/historyculture/journal-entries.htm">City of Rocks National Reserve</a></li> </ul> <h3>Nebraska</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/california-hill.htm">California Hill </a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/scotts-bluff-nat-monument-the-oregon-trail.htm">Scotts Bluff National Monument</a></li> </ul> <h3>Wyoming</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/north-platte-river-crossing.htm">North Platte River Crossing</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/bedlam-ruts.htm">Bedlam Ruts</a>.</li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/independence-rock-state-historic-site.htm">Independence Rock State Historic Site</a></li> </ul>

<h2>Walk on the Trail</h2> <p>Walk in the footsteps of history. Discover the same landscapes and imagine the hardships of those that have passed before you, as you look through their eyes on the same viewsheds. What is different? What is the same? Walking the trail is a different kind of hiking experience! In some places, the historic trail is a current modern-day hiking trail. In others, it could be a modern-day asphalt road. Experiences vary, so please check with individual locations for more details.</p> <h4>Check out one of these opportunities to walk the trail:</h4> <h3>Idaho</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/massacre-rocks-state-park.htm">Massacre Rocks State Park</a> <ul> <li>3592 Park Lane, American Falls</li> <li><strong>Trail Info: </strong>The state park still contains visible remnants of the Oregon and California Trails, including deep ruts that can be visited by following a paved path at the end of Park Lane.</li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/ciro/learn/historyculture/journal-entries.htm">City of Rocks National Reserve</a> <ul> <li>3035 South HWY 77 Spur, Almo</li> <li><strong>Trail Info: </strong>Many emigants wrote about passing through the City of Rocks on the Trail. </li> </ul> </li> </ul> <h3>Nebraska</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/california-hill.htm">California Hill </a> <ul> <li>north side of U.S. 30, approximately 4.5 miles west of Brule</li> <li><strong>Trail Info: </strong>A steep climb of 240 feet in 1½ miles. Deep ruts, which are still plainly visible today, were created as the wagons were dragged up the hill.</li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/scotts-bluff-nat-monument-the-oregon-trail.htm">Scotts Bluff National Monument</a> <ul> <li>three miles west of Gering, Nebraska on Old Oregon Trail (Highway 92 West)</li> <li><strong>Trail Info: </strong>Trail ruts are still visible today and a section of them has been developed into a walking trail with interpretive waysides.</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <h3>Wyoming</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/north-platte-river-crossing.htm">North Platte River Crossing</a> <ul> <li>west of Fort Laramie</li> <li><strong>Trail Info: </strong>Travel the 1.5 mile trail along the river to explore one of numerous crossings used by trappers, traders, American Indians, and emigrants to reach Fort Laramie. </li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/bedlam-ruts.htm">Bedlam Ruts</a> <ul> <li>west of Fort Laramie National Historic Site</li> <li><strong>Trail Info: </strong>A tretch of Oregon Trail ruts and swales that visitors can walk.</li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/000/independence-rock-state-historic-site.htm">Independence Rock State Historic Site</a> <ul> <li>west of Alcova</li> <li><strong>Trail Info: </strong>A footpath goes around the base of this famous trail landmark. Hiking is allowed on the rock; however, please avoid walking on the earliest inscriptions as they are wearing thin.</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <h3><a href="https://www.nps.gov/cali/planyourvisit/safety.htm">Safety Considerations</a><br /> <br /> For more location information: <a href="http://www.nps.gov/cali/planyourvisit/places-to-go.htm">Places to Go on the California Trail</a></h3>   <p> </p> <h4> </h4>

<p>Pets being allowed will vary by location. Please check with the individual site for more information.</p>

Follow in the footsteps of over 250,000 emigrants who traveled to the gold fields and rich farmlands of California during the 1840s and 1850s: the greatest mass migration in American history. There are a variety of hiking opportunities across the full length of the trail. We've selected a few places in Idaho, Nebraska, and Wyoming for you to check out.

Hike on the California Trail

Transportation

Museum Exhibits

<p>Nominal fees may be charged at some locations. Please check with the individual site for more information.</p>

A stone sign with the entrance to the visitor center.

<p>There are a wide range of museums and visitor centers along the California Trail. In some places, you may find more interpretive exhibits, information, and programs. In other places, being in the location will enrich your experience, even with minimal facilities available. In either circumstance, you can experience the California Trail and learn about this important piece of history.</p> <ul> <li>National Frontier Trails Center in Independence, MO</li> <li>Western Historic Trails Center in Council Bluffs, IA</li> <li>Chimney Rock NHS in Bridgeport, NE</li> <li>Scotts Bluff National Monument in Gering, NE</li> <li>National Historic Trails Interpretive Center, Casper, WY</li> <li>Museum of Church History and Art in Salt Lake City, UT</li> <li>California National Historic Trail Interpretive Center in Elko, NV</li> </ul> <h3>For more location information: <a href="http://www.nps.gov/cali/planyourvisit/places-to-go.htm">Places to Go on the California Trail</a></h3>

<p>Pets are not typically permitted in federal buildings. Please check with individual locations about their pet restrictions.</p>

There are a variety of museums and visitor centers along the California Trail. In some places, you may find more interpretive exhibits, information, and programs. In other places, being in the location will enrich your experience, even with minimal facilities. Visit one of these locations to learn more about the history and culture of the Trail.

Check out Museums and Visitor Centers along the California Trail

Horseback Riding

<p>Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information for individual sites.</p>

<p>Ride your horse along the route of the overland travelers, as you take a ride back in time. Experience the landscapes, ponder the changes, and take a ride back in time along segments of the Trail.<br /> <br /> Trail conditions, access, and length will vary by location. Please check with the individual location for more information.</p> <h3>Horse Access</h3> <h4>Extensive trail segments</h4> <ul> <li><strong>Oregon Trail Road:</strong> Mills, WY to WYO-220 just north of Independence Rock, 41.5 miles</li> <li><strong>South Pass Segment:</strong> Independence Rock to Parting of the Ways, 125 miles Lander Road: Burnt Ranch, WY to Fort Hall, ID, approx. 250 miles</li> <li><strong>Parting of the Ways</strong>: end of the South Pass segment Bear River Divide Segment: US 189 to WY 89, 31 miles</li> <li><strong>Fort Bridger to Muddy Creek:</strong> approx. 14 miles</li> <li><strong>Skull Valley UT Segment: </strong>Timpi Spring to Aragonite Exit on I-80, approx. 45 miles</li> <li><strong>California Trail Backcountry Byway:</strong> Goose Creek to Hwy 93, in northeast NV, approx. 50 miles</li> </ul> <h3>For more location information: <a href="http://www.nps.gov/cali/planyourvisit/places-to-go.htm">Places to Go on the California Trail</a></h3>

<p>Due to the varied nature of these opportunities, please check with individual locations about whether pets are allowed.</p>

Take a ride back in time on the California Trail! The variety of opportunities ranges from historic landscapes to modern views, and from short to longer trail rides. Riding the Trail is a great way to connect to this fascinating story of over 250,000 emigrants who traveled to the gold fields and rich farmlands of California during the 1840s and 1850s.

California

Overview

Hours

Fees & Passes

Map

Things To Do

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Become a California Trail Junior Ranger

Description

Birdwatching on the California Trail

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Fees

Go See Oregon Trail Ruts

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Fees

Hike on the California Trail

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Fees

Check out Museums and Visitor Centers along the California Trail

Description

Fees

Horseback Riding on the California Trail

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