Walk Where The Pioneers Once Walked On This Easy Hiking Trail In Idaho
By Courtnie Erickson|Published May 25, 2023
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is one of the most underrated destinations in Idaho. This national monument is home to one of the largest concentrations of Hagerman fossils in North America. But, Hagerman Fossil Beds is home to so much more … it is also where you can feel like a pioneer walking along the Oregon Trail. The pioneers walked through this area in the 1800s and you can take a step back to their time when you explore the Emigrant Trail.
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, near Thousand Springs State Park, is best known as home to some of the most unique fossils in the world. But, you will find so much more here.
In the 1800s, emigrants making the journey along the Oregon Trail would walk through the Hagerman Valley. Today, you can pretend you are also making the grueling journey as you hike the Emigrant Trail.
This hiking trail in Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument parallels the old wagon route and offers a few fun discoveries along the way.
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This trail is 3.25 miles one way. If you wish to complete the trail in its entirety, the journey can be long but you can always turn around whenever you desire.
The trail is well maintained, making it quite easy to follow. There is no shade along the way, so always come prepared with water, sun protection, and more.
This isn’t a busy trail and it’s one where you may just find some much-needed peace and quiet.
In various areas along the trail, you can see wagon ruts where hundreds of wagons pushed forward as the pioneers made their way out West. You’ll want to keep a close eye, however, as these wagon ruts aren’t always easy to spot.
If you make the 3-mile journey, the trail will take you to the Oregon Trail Overlook. From the overlook, you can receive a larger picture of the route the pioneers took hundreds of years ago.
While you can always hike to the overlook, there is also a nearby parking lot where you can enjoy the views but without the work. If you have two vehicles, you can always park one vehicle at each end of the trail, allowing for a 3-mile, one-way journey rather than a six-mile round-trip adventure.
You may just feel like a pioneer as you travel along the Emigrant Trail at Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument. This is one hiking trail at this Idaho national monument that I suggest you check out.
For more information on the Emigrant Trail and Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, visit the National Park Service website.
Have you been to this national monument in Idaho? What are some of your favorite things to do at Hagerman Fossil Beds? Did you take this easy hiking trail in Idaho? Let us and your fellow travelers know in the comments!
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