Oregon Trail Ruts State Historic Site

Ruts carved by the wagon wheels of thousands of overland travelers show mark the landscape around Gu

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Vicinity of Guernsey, Wyoming

Significance:

Location of historic trail ruts that are five feet deep

Designation:

Wyoming State Park

MANAGED BY:

Wyoming State Parks

Amenities

4 listed

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.

Safety Considerations

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

Guernsey, WY - Places to visit along the Oregon, California, Pony Express, and Mormon Pioneer NHTs

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Duration:

4 minutes, 25 seconds

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.

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