If sagebrush and wagon ruts could speak, just imagine the stories they could tell of Wyoming’s earliest residents! Fortunately for us, a visit to South Pass City, Wyoming, might just be the next best thing. South Pass has a unique history as the state’s biggest and first Gold Rush town. It had its peak around 1868 when over 1,000 miners and tradesmen called the town home — until 1872 when there was a mass exodus. But this Wyoming ghost town didn’t disappear entirely.
Today, the South Pass City Historic Site is a bustling slice of living Central Wyoming history, where visitors can experience and admire the fantastic historic remnants of the town, which are carefully preserved and maintained by the BLM. But South Pass isn’t just for history buffs; nature lovers will enjoy it as well! To get an even more fantastic picture of the town as a whole, visitors will find a number of beautiful trails crisscrossing the historic site. And soon, there will be even more trails to enjoy on your next visit.
South Pass City stands as a fantastic testament to the adventurous spirit and tenacity of those who ventured west in search of a better life during the expansion of the U.S. This is one off-the-beaten-path destination that’s well worth a visit on your next road trip! The South Pass City State Historic Site is typically open May-October. Learn more about amenities and what to expect on the Wyoming Parks website.
If you’ve ever visited South Pass City, let us know your favorite stops along the way! And if you plan to stay overnight in the area, mark your calendars: this stunning home near Sinks Canyon is the perfect getaway for your history-filled getaway.
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