Oregon National Historic Trail

The Oregon National Historic Trail is a significant route that holds great historical significance within the United States. Located in the western part of the country, the trail spans approximately 2,000 miles and crosses through six states: Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Idaho, and Oregon.

The Oregon Trail has its roots in the early 19th century when thousands of pioneers embarked on a grueling journey westward in search of new opportunities. The trail served as a lifeline for these pioneers, as it offered a passage to the fertile lands of the Oregon Territory. The early pioneers faced numerous challenges, including rough terrain, disease, and harsh weather conditions, making their journey a treacherous one.

Today, the Oregon National Historic Trail serves as a gateway to understanding the adventurous spirit and courage of the early American settlers. Along the trail, visitors can explore various landmarks and attractions that provide a glimpse into the past. For example, the National Frontier Trails Museum in Missouri showcases exhibits that depict the struggles and triumphs of the pioneers. In Kansas, visitors can visit the Hollenberg Pony Express Station, which served as a resting place for weary travelers.

As the trail continues westward, nature enthusiasts can marvel at the beauty of Scotts Bluff National Monument in Nebraska, where dramatic rock formations offer panoramic views of the Platte River Valley. In Wyoming, the South Pass City State Historic Site offers a chance to explore an old mining town that prospered during the gold rush.

In Idaho, the Oregon National Historic Trail passes through the City of Rocks National Reserve, famous for its unique rock formations and historical Native American connections. Finally, in Oregon, pioneer-era sights like the Barlow Road Tollgate and the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Oregon City provide insights into the final leg of the pioneer journey.

Visitors can engage in a variety of activities along the Oregon National Historic Trail. Hiking, camping, and horseback riding opportunities are abundant, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the wilderness that the pioneers experienced centuries ago. Interpretive centers and museums along the trail provide educational resources and exhibits for those looking to gain a deeper understanding of the area's history.

In summary, the Oregon National Historic Trail offers a fascinating journey through the American West, following in the footsteps of the brave pioneers who sought a better future in the Oregon Territory. With its diverse historical landmarks and natural attractions, the trail serves as a significant destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Location

The Oregon National Historic Trail is a significant route that spans over 2,000 miles, tracing the historic journey of pioneers seeking a new life in the American West. Starting from various points in Missouri, the trail winds its way through diverse landscapes, including prairies, forests, mountains, and deserts, before reaching its terminus in Oregon City, Oregon. Along the trail, travelers can immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Great Plains, witness the rugged majesty of the Rocky Mountains, and navigate treacherous river crossings. This historic trail serves as a testament to the determination, hardships, and dreams of those who braved the arduous journey, offering visitors a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of America's westward expansion.

Address & Contact

National Trails Office - Regions 6, 7, 8
Oregon National Historic Trail
National Trails Office - Regions 6, 7, 8
Santa Fe, NM 87505
Driving Directions
Phone: N/A
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit the Oregon National Historic Trail would be during the months of June, July, and August. These months offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities, with average maximum temperatures ranging from 73°F to 82°F. The average minimum temperatures during this time range from 53°F to 58°F. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation is significantly lower during these months, ranging from 0.4 inches to 1.7 inches.

Things to do and learn in Oregon National Historic Trail

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Oregon National Historic Trail are: Guided Tours Junior Ranger Program Museum Exhibits Hiking Auto and ATV Scenic Driving Horse Trekking Horseback Riding Self-Guided Tours - Auto

Topics

Learn about these topics at Oregon National Historic Trail: Arts Native American Heritage Westward Expansion Rock Landscapes and Features Trails Colonization and Settlement Explorers and Expeditions African American Heritage Photography Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite Forts Monuments and Memorials Wars and Conflicts

Amenities

Visitor Centers

National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is managed by the Bureau of Land Management in Baker City, Oregon. The large interpretive center contains exhibits that tell the story of the Oregon Trail and the emigrant experience. In addition, the center contains a theater that hosts films, lectures, and dramatic presentations. On the grounds of the site are four miles of interpretive hiking trails, an amphitheater, a wagon encampment for living history demonstrations, and scenic views.

Campsites within or near Oregon National Historic Trail

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Oregon National Historic Trail

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Motel 6 Vancouver, WA

Located in Vancouver, Motel 6 Vancouver, WA is in the business district, a 4-minute drive from Columbia River and 6 minutes from Vancouver Mall. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 221 Northeast Chkalov Drive, Vancouver, Washington 98684
Web: Link

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Portland Airport

Located in Portland, Howard Johnson by Wyndham Portland Airport is in the suburbs, within a 10-minute drive of Cascade Station and Providence Portland Medical Center. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and multilingual staff. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 8247 Ne Sandy Blvd, Portland, Oregon 97220
Web: Link

Holiday Inn Express Vancouver North - Salmon Creek, an IHG Hotel

With a stay at Holiday Inn Express Vancouver North - Salmon Creek, an IHG Hotel in Vancouver (Pleasant Valley), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital and Washington State University Vancouver. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 13101 NE 27th Ave, Vancouver, Washington 98686
Web: Link

Hilton Vancouver Washington

A stay at Hilton Vancouver Washington places you in the heart of Vancouver, within a 5-minute walk of Esther Short Park and Vancouver Farmers Market. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Vancouver? This hotel has facilities measuring 30000 square feet (2787 square meters), including a conference center. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 301 W. 6th Street, Vancouver, Washington 98660
Web: Link

The Inn At Salmon Creek

With a stay at The Inn At Salmon Creek in Vancouver (Pleasant Valley), you'll be a 2-minute drive from Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital and 5 minutes from Clark County Fairgrounds. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and a vending machine. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 11901 NE Hwy 99, Vancouver, Washington 98686
Web: Link

On the Columbia Vacation Apartments

With a stay at On the Columbia Vacation Apartments in Portland, you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Delta Park East and Portland Expo Center. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1100 North Anchor Way, Portland, Oregon 97217
Web: Link

Lilyspring PDX Vacation Apartments

With a stay at Lilyspring PDX Vacation Apartments in Vancouver (Ellsworth), you'll be a 4-minute drive from Columbia River and 6 minutes from Vancouver Mall. Featured amenities include express check-in, express check-out, and laundry facilities. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available 24 hours).
Address: 108 SE 103rd Ave, Vancouver, Washington 98664
Web: Link

2402 KAUFFMAN AVE

With a stay at this vacation home in Vancouver (Hough), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Columbia River and Vancouver Farmers Market. Featured amenities include multilingual staff and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2402 Kauffman Ave, Vancouver, Washington 98660
Web: Link

The Kenton

Located in Portland, The Kenton is within a 5-minute drive of Columbia River and Delta Park East. Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and coffee/tea in a common area.
Address: 8355 N Interstate Ave, Portland, Oregon 97217
Web: Link

My Place Hotel-Vancouver, WA

Located in Vancouver, My Place Hotel-Vancouver, WA is in a shopping district, a 1-minute drive from Vancouver Mall and 9 minutes from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 8300 Northeast Vancouver Mall Loop, Vancouver, Washington 98607
Web: Link