Oregon National Historic Trail

Imagine yourself an emigrant headed for Oregon: would promises of lush farmlands and a new beginning lure you to leave home and walk for weeks? More than 2,000 miles of trail ruts and traces can still be seen along the Oregon National Historic Trail in six states and serve as reminders of the sacrifices, struggles, and triumphs of early American settlers.

Guernsey Ruts, Wyoming

The Guernsey Ruts in Wyoming feature deeply eroded rock from wagon traffic.

A wagon swale is cut deep into limestone rock with trees in background.

Devil's Gate, Wyoming

Devil's Gate was an important emigrant landmark in Wyoming.

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

Alcove Spring Park Wayside

Alcove Spring Park is located in Kansas near Blue Rapids and Marysville.

An exhibit with an illustration in front of green trees and a rock ledge.

Split Rock, Wyoming

Split Rock was an important emigrant landmark in Wyoming.

A large yellow flowering desert shrub in front of sagebrush and a large rock buttress.

Fort Laramie, Wyoming

Fort Laramie National Historic Site features a replica fort with exhibits, located in eastern Wyoming.

Two people walk on a green lawn in front of historic fort buildings.