The Historic Trails of Wyoming and Nebraska

Wind River Country
Across The Great Divide

The towering Wind River Mountains were the "Shining Moun-tains" that emigrant travelers on the Oregon, California and Mormon Trails had to negotiate. The snow-capped peaks were visible for 100 miles as the covered wagon trains made their slow journey up the valley of the Sweetwater River. Finally, at the Great South Pass, the pioneers crossed the Continental Divide and entered "Oregon Country".

Today, this country lies entirely within Fremont County, a huge, central Wyoming region that still features the unspoiled wide-open spaces the pioneers experienced as they passed through. Some of the most pristine sections of trail can be found on South Pass. Here, history buffs can walk along old wagon ruts surrounded by nothing but the wind and sky, pan for gold at South Pass City State Historic Site, visit local museums, historical landmarks and cultural centers, or hook up with a guide or outfitter to get a more intimate view of the Old West.