A wagon swale is cut deep into limestone rock with trees in background.
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National Historic Trail
9 Activities

Oregon National Historic Trail

ID,KS,MO,NE,OR,WA,WY

A rock buttress with a notch in it surrounded by sagebrush flats.
An exhibit with an illustration in front of green trees and a rock ledge.
A large yellow flowering desert shrub in front of sagebrush and a large rock buttress.
Two people walk on a green lawn in front of historic fort buildings.

About 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.

Things To Do

Become an Oregon Trail Junior Ranger

Become an Oregon Trail Junior Ranger

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

Go See Oregon Trail Ruts

Go See Oregon Trail Ruts

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!

Hike on the Oregon Trail

Hike on the Oregon 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? Travel the Oregon National Historic Trail in six states and be reminded of the sacrifices, struggles, triumphs, and impacts of early American settlers. There are a variety of hiking opportunities across the full length of the trail. We've selected a few places in Oregon, Idaho, Nebraska, and Wyoming for you to check out.

Horseback Riding on the Oregon Trail

Horseback Riding on the Oregon Trail

Take a ride back in time on the Oregon 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, as your experience will serve as a reminder of the sacrifices, struggles, and triumphs of early American settlers.

Check out Museums and Visitor Centers along the Oregon Trail

Check out Museums and Visitor Centers along the Oregon Trail

There are a variety of museums and visitor centers along the Oregon 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.

Available Activities

Auto and ATV
Scenic Driving
Guided Tours
Self-Guided Tours - Auto
Hiking
Horse Trekking
Horseback Riding
Junior Ranger Program
Museum Exhibits

Weather

Due to the length of the Oregon National Historic Trail, be sure to consult local weather sources for the region you'll be visiting. Check out the forecast with the National Weather Service and search for the area you'd like to visit: weather.

Getting There

More than 2,000 miles of trail ruts and traces can still be seen along the Oregon National Historic Trail in six states- reminders of the sacrifices, struggles, and triumphs of early American settlers.

Plan Your Visit

Let Roamze help you plan the perfect trip to Oregon National Historic Trail with AI-powered itineraries.

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Hours

Oregon National Historic Trail

The Oregon 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 trail sites before your visit for more information.

Location

ID,KS,MO,NE,OR,WA,WY

41.9877, -109.6342

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