Oregon National Historic Trail

National Treasure Visited #6 on Shea’s Ultimate American Quest
First Experienced During Quest On: October 24, 2023

The Oregon National Historic Trail is a vital piece of American history, tracing the route that thousands of pioneers followed during the mid-19th century in search of new opportunities in the West. Spanning approximately 2,170 miles from Missouri to Oregon, the trail crosses through Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Idaho, and Oregon, showcasing the challenges and triumphs faced by early settlers. Established as a national historic trail in 1978, it preserves the legacy of westward expansion and the resilience of those who journeyed across rugged terrain, treacherous river crossings, and extreme weather conditions.

The trail is marked by historic landmarks, wagon ruts, and interpretive centers that offer insight into the hardships and determination of the pioneers. It holds deep national value as a symbol of American perseverance and exploration. Visitors can walk portions of the trail, explore preserved sites, and reflect on the courage and sacrifice that shaped the American frontier.

I’ll be seeking more sites to learn more about this historic trail.

A life-sized sculpture of a covered wagon with two black oxen is displayed on a grassy area near a road. The wagon has a white canvas top and wooden wheels. In the background, autumn trees with colorful orange and yellow leaves are visible under a cloudy sky.

Shea's Videos and Travel Journal Entries Tagged with Oregon National Historic Trail

A covered wagon sits proudly on a raised stone platform, guided by two black oxen statues. Informational plaques serve as historical markers for the California-Oregon Trail. The scene is set against autumn trees with yellow leaves under an overcast sky, connected by a path from lush green grass.
The California-Oregon Trail Historical Marker
Wandering and meandering on back roads and uncrowded highways allows me to find many unexpected and unusual sites, such as this historic trail marker and gravestone.
Read Journal Entry ➔
Load More Posts
Map showing the route of the Oregon Trail from Missouri to Oregon. Major landmarks and forts are marked, including Independence, Fort Kearny, Chimney Rock, Fort Laramie, South Pass, Fort Hall, and The Dalles, spanning present-day states like Nebraska, Wyoming, and Idaho.
A weathered stone marker stands in a grassy field, surrounded by autumn trees. The engraved text reads: "Here lies an early traveler who lost his life in quest of riches in the West." The marker is framed by green grass and yellow foliage, with a slightly overcast sky above.
A historical marker sign titled "The California-Oregon Trail" stands by a roadside. The text details the trail's history from the 1850s to the 1870s. Surrounding the marker are autumn trees with golden leaves, and a road leads off into the distance on a cloudy day.
A historical map titled "Route of the Oregon Trail" shows the trail's path through Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Idaho, and Oregon, marked by a line with dots. Text details emigrant graves along the trail and historical context about travel between 1840 and 1869.
Learn More:
National Park Service
Shea's Ultimate American Quest
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases

Copyright @ 2025 Shea Oliver. All Rights Reserved

Be Excellent to Each Other