Oregon National Historic Trail

Driving Tour

In the mid-1800s, thousands of pioneers followed the Oregon Trail 2,000 miles from Missouri to Oregon in search of a better life. However, the Oregon Trail was never just one route. Some emigrants deviated from the main trail in search of water and livestock forage, while others found shortcuts and better routes to avoid difficult terrain.

Visitors today can seen ruts made by the wheels of the original wagons.  Two segments of the primary route, North Trail and Sinker Creek, are located in southwestern Idaho. Interpretive sites at Bonneville Point, 16 miles southeast of Boise, and at the Milner Site, 10 miles west of Burley, explain the challenges faced by intrepid pioneers.  In southeastern Idaho, the Trail traverses the BLM Pocatello Field Office.

The Oregon National Historic Trail presents wonderful recreational opportunities and beautiful scenery.  Jump in your car or explore on foot, with ample opportunities for camping, hiking, horseback riding, OHV riding and scenic/wildlife viewing.