Experience Pioneer Travel at the National Oregon/California Trail Center
The National Oregon/California Trail Center in the Bear Lake Valley in Montpelier, Idaho offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore pioneer history. Hundreds of thousands of Americans set off on the 2,000 mile journey along the historic Oregon/California Trail in the latter half of the 19th century. The Trail Center interprets the pioneer’s story, giving visitors a first-hand experience of the six month journey from Missouri to the Oregon Territory.
The Trail Center is located along the original Oregon/California Trail, and the historic location sets the stage for the recreated trek visitors experience indoors at the Center. Live actors lead visitors on a simulated wagon train journey west through a series of historically accurate interpretive areas.
The Trail Center journey begins at the recreated mercantile shop. Here, the wagon master will guide you in selecting provisions necessary for survival during the arduous six month journey. Visiting pioneers learn about the wagon and oxen needed to carry them along the trail and the livestock they will need to bring for food production. Visitors also learn about the guns and ammunition needed for the journey, how much food is required, and other types of necessary supplies such as candles and axle grease.
As part of your journey at the Trail Center, you’ll see how provisions are packed and loaded on board the wagon in preparation for travel. Once the wagon has been fully stocked, the long trek gets underway. A computer- simulated covered wagon trail ride allows visitors to experience what it felt like to travel the Oregon/California Trail. Pioneer actors in period costumes along with the wagon master provide information about the Trail, and you will learn about the lifestyle of the pioneers at various stops along the way.
You’ll hear authentic sounds and stories as you sit around a simulated campfire at a wagon encampment. The Blacksmith’s wagon and other re-enactment areas transport visitors back in time during a fun, educational and very entertaining experience. The original 2,000 mile journey is condensed into a fascinating one hour tour that provides visitors with an authentic view of pioneer life along the Oregon/California Trail.
In addition to the simulated Trail journey, there are several other attractions at the National Oregon/California Trail Center. The Rails and Trails Museum features exhibits that display railroad artifacts, relics and pioneer memorabilia from Montpelier and the Bear Lake Valley. The early history of Montpelier’s railroad, the history of Bear Lake Valley and the Pioneer experience on the Oregon/California Trail are themes of the exhibits at the Museum.
Visitors to the National Oregon/California Trail Center will also see a very impressive exhibit of paintings by artist Gary Stone. Forty vibrant paintings that were carefully researched for historical accuracy interpret pioneers’ experiences along the Oregon Trail.
Related posts:
- Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail – Kooskia, Idaho
- World Center for Birds of Prey – Boise, Idaho
- Nez Perce National Historic Park – Spalding, Idaho
- Hells Canyon National Recreation Area – Grangeville, Lewiston, McCall, Council and Cambridge Area – Idaho
- Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument – Hagerman, Idaho
About Editor