Last updated: March 14, 2025
Place
Oregon Trail Ruts State Historic Site

NPS Photo
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Picnic Table, Restroom, Trailhead
Oregon Trail Ruts State Historic Site, also called the Guernsey Ruts, is located where the geography of the area forced the national historic trails to change course. At this point, the trails were blocked from continuing along the North Platte River by a steep ridge of sandstone rock. Travelers had to go up and over the ridge in order to continue heading west. The ridge's soft sandstone was no match for thousands of iron-shod wheels and hooves and quickly eroded. By the time historic wagon travel ended, ruts five feet deep had been chewed into the rock.
Site Information
Location (vicinity of Guernsey, Wyoming)
The state historic site provides an opportunity to view, and walk in, these ruts. To reach them, follow the short, paved path (steep in some places) that starts at the parking lot. Interpretive signs along the path tell the story. The historic site also offers a small group picnic shelter and a public restroom.
More Site Information
National Historic Trail sites near Guernsey, Wyoming
Oregon National Historic Trail
California National Historic Trail
Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail
Pony Express National Historic Trail
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Guernsey, Wyoming, is a small town situated along the North Platte River and the Great Platte River Road, a significant historic route followed by travelers on the Oregon, California, Pony Express, and Mormon Pioneer national historic trails. Visitors have the opportunity to explore several notable trail related sites in the area, including Oregon Trail Ruts State Park, Register Cliff State Park, and Guernsey State Park, each showcasing the remnants and legacy of westward expansion.
Tags
- california national historic trail
- mormon pioneer national historic trail
- oregon national historic trail
- pony express national historic trail
- oregon trail
- oregon trail ruts
- wyoming
- places
- historic trail
- national trails
- emigrant trails
- ruts
- trail ruts
- swales
- wyoming state park
- california trail
- mormon pioneer trail
- mormon pioneer
- pony express