Trails Center announces summer 'Pioneer Trail Trek' schedule

CASPER, Wyo. – The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center presents its summer 2024 lineup of off-site Pioneer Trail Treks. Each Trail Trek provides a rare opportunity to experience unique and meaningful sites from the pioneer trails era with a deeper connection to the past.

The summer series kicks off on Saturday, May 25, exploring the historic trails just west of Independence Rock. This trek will follow the pioneer trails along the Sweetwater River near Martin’s Cove and end near the famous landmark, Split Rock.

Trail Trek participants will meet in the parking lot of the Trails Center at 8 a.m. and depart shortly after. Participation is free, but participants must drive their own vehicle or carpool with others and will be led by Trails Center staff as well as Oregon-California Trails Association (OCTA) members.

Trail Treks are driving trips with numerous stops in-between. Transportation to these sites will not be provided and carpooling is encouraged. Four-wheel drive, high clearance vehicles are recommended. Please bring a lunch, drinks, sunscreen, and wear appropriate clothing. Be prepared for inclement weather throughout the day!  

Can’t make the first trip? The Trails Center is offering treks throughout the summer. Check out the schedule below and mark your calendar to receive a free, guided trip to experience Wyoming’s pioneer history with experts from the BLM and OCTA.

• June 1: Independence Rock and Rattlesnake Pass
• June 29: Black Hills Route and Pioneer Graves
• July 20: County Roads 308/319 – The Oregon Trail Road
• August 24: Western Nebraska to the Iron Bridge at Fort Laramie

To stay up to date on future programs at the Trails Center, follow BLM Wyoming on Facebook or X, or visit the BLM’s Trails Center website at https://www.blm.gov/learn/interpretive-centers/national-historic-trails-interpretive-center.

For more information and to register, please contact BLM interpreter Jason Vlcan at 307-261-7783.