Place

National Frontier Trails Museum

California National Historic Trail, Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail, Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail, Oregon National Historic Trail, Santa Fe National Historic Trail

The front entrance to a large, red brick building. — The new National Frontier Museum temporary site.
Photo/Larry Short

Bicycle - Rack, Gifts/Souvenirs/Books, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Restroom, Theater/Auditorium, Trailhead, Water - Drinking/Potable

The historic trails passed through this area in the field that is directly across from the National Frontier Trails Museum. Evidence of the Trail can still be seen in the field in the form of swales, which marks the exact route used by emigrants as they traveled westward. A quarter mile paved path leads to these swales. Along the way, interpretive signs tell the story of what is was like to begin the long trail journey.

The museum is currently temporarily located at 416 W. Maple Ave., Independence, MO 64050.

Site Information

Location (416 W. Maple Ave., Independence, MO 64050)

The museum building itself contains exhibits about the exploration, acquisition, and settlement of the American west; authentic covered wagons; trail artifacts; original diaries and letters; and a children's activity room. An award winning film is also available for visitors to view. In addition, the museum houses the Merrill J. Mattes Research Library, which has the nation's largest public collection of rare books, documents, and diaries about the trails. Modest admission charged.

Safety Considerations