Covered wagon road trips: Explore 5 scenic spots
The history of PlainsCraft Covered Wagons wouldn’t be as rich as it is if it weren’t for the Oregon Trail. This period, which lasted from the 1840s into the 1880s, led thousands west from Missouri to Oregon in wagons that looked just like ours, and along the same road where we’re located today. With just a few supplies and a lot of dreams, the settlers who took this road changed the face of the American West thanks to their adventurous spirit.
This same pioneer spirit led us to build our company, and today, our wagons bring a bit of nostalgia and romance to glamping getaways across the country. We believe the original covered wagon road trips are every bit as exciting to experience today, just as our ancestors did so long ago. If you’re interested in following in the footsteps of the early settlers and exploring what made this trail so awe inspiring, check out these five scenic spots from the iconic trail.
Independence, Missouri
You can’t talk about the scenic routes of the pioneers without starting in Independence. Located on the outskirts of Kansas City, Independence served as the beginning of the Santa Fe, Oregon and California trails. The National Frontier Trails Museum, part of the National Park Service, tells the stories of the settlers who began their covered wagon road trips here. You can even take a ride on a historic covered wagon.
Whether you’re looking to stay in Independence, or you want to check out the rest of the Kansas City area, there are so many options for you to enjoy. Watch for historic markers throughout the region, which makes notes of passage routes, wagon ruts, and even covered wagons themselves. The area is also known for its outstanding barbecue, and you can’t go wrong with any of the local Kansas City spots. The area is home to Super Bowl Champions the Kansas City Chiefs, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and the National World War I Museum. And known as the City of Fountains, KC has over 200 registered fountains you can view throughout the city.
Chimney Rock in Nebraska
Chimney Rock is a natural landmark that was significant to settlers along the Oregon Trail and still stands as a symbol of exploration today. This rock foundation stands at 480 feet in the North Platte River Valley. Chimney Rock was a pause along the trail that brought awe to settlers along the route.
This location is an outstanding spot for visitors looking to experience a natural landmark. It’s a great destination for nature watching or exploring the Chimney Rock visitor center. Enjoy the stunning views before hitting the road like the settlers did on their trip west.
The Red Buttes in Casper, Wyoming
The Red Buttes, now known as the Bessemer Bend National Historic Site, is located just south of current-day Casper. But during the days of the Oregon Trail, the buttes was a landmark that represented the end of the journey across the flat lands of the current Midwest and into the west. It was also a crossroad for several native tribes that hunted in the area.
Casper is now home to numerous festivals, including the Central Wyoming Fair and Rodeo. Nearby Casper Mountain and the North Platte River also provide abundant opportunities for outdoor entertainment throughout the year. If you’re into floating, fishing, hiking, or skiing, it’s all found in Casper. It’s also a hot spot for craft beer and spirits and it has a thriving culinary scene you’ll be sure to enjoy.
Shoshone Falls in Twin Falls, Idaho
Before Twin Falls was founded in 1904, it was a popular stop along the Oregon Trail thanks to its breathtaking waterfalls, Shoshone Falls and Perrine Coulee Falls. Shoshone Falls is called“Niagara of the West” and at 212 feet, it’s taller than Niagara Falls. Twin Falls is also home to the Snake River Canyon, known not only by the settlers, but for Evel Knievel’s unsuccessful jump across the canyon in 1974.
Twin Falls is a hot spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Its hiking trails take hikers behind the Perrine Coulee Falls. Visitors love kayaking and boating on the Snake River, and zip lining over the canyon. Downtown Twin Falls is a great location for shopping, dining, and soaking up the annual events found in the community. From Western Days to Oktoberfest, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Mount Hood, Oregon
Mt. Hood is the tallest mountain peak in Oregon, standing at 11,250 feet above sea level. Located an hour east of Portland, Mt. Hood represented the end of the road for travelers who survived the Oregon Trail. Today, wagon ruts are still found around the mountain. And many of the interpretive centers in the area are filled with artifacts that tell of the journey these pioneers made.
Mt. Hood is also an incredible vacation destination. It’s a dormant volcano that’s surrounded by forest. That means it’s a great spot for skiing, hiking, snowboarding, and just about every other outdoor activity you can imagine. The Mt. Hood area features farms and wineries, craft breweries, and countless restaurants where you can relax after a day on the slopes. Whether it’s the middle of winter or the beginning of summer, there’s a vast variety of things to do at Mt. Hood.
Where will you visit?
Do you have other recommendations about where to visit along the Oregon Trail? Share your own ideas for covered wagon road trips in the comments below.
Add a modern day covered wagon to your outdoor destination by getting in touch today. Let’s create that modern day experience for your guests together.
