Oregon National Historic Trail - Five Key Locations (Vlog)

[@OregonFamilyAdventures]

Great video! I'm not a big history buff, but this held my interest and made me wonder what it would be like to travel west all those years ago. I thought it was a big deal when my family moved from TN to OR via interstates and highways, but I guess it would've been a MUCH bigger deal if we'd had to travel along a dirt trail searching for landmarks along the way.

[@AmericasParks]

So true! That's what made this place so amazing for us. Walking the same paths - imagining the fears, labor, hope, joy, etc. the early settlers had along the way. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@gwengwen4535]

I know this is pretty old, but just watch the show 1883 and you’ll see what the trail was like. I never cried so much at a show in all my life😭😭😭

[@Dovid2000]

One cannot have but the utmost respect for the people who made that long journey.

[@AmericasParks]

That is absolutely true! We need to teach more history so people can really appreciate these feats. Makes my life seem rather easy!

[@roxiestoneburner]

Excellent! Beautiful footage.

[@AmericasParks]

Much appreciated, Roxie! Enjoy your weekend!

[@rikihanawhiu7637]

Always been intrigued by the great migration West along the Oregon trail and American history. Thankyou for sharing your amazing trek along such an epic trail.

[@AmericasParks]

Same here - so fascinating! Appreciate the thoughtful and kind comment!

[@janetblickle7924]

My ancestors came here to Oregon on the Oregon trail in 1854. Thank you for showing me what they saw.

[@AmericasParks]

So neat to hear, Janet! I find that trial so fascinating. Life did not come easy for those folks!

[@melrose795]

Went out to Wyoming in 1978 with the Girl Scouts.. Saw the trail, Ft. Laramie, etc. Stayed in National Center West in Ten Sleep, WY, which was later sold. Gorgeous Country, lots of history.

[@AmericasParks]

Happy to hear you've experienced this special country with so much fascinating history!

[@vitor2650]

Love the way you tell a story! Preach it brother!

[@AmericasParks]

Amen! :)

[@LyudmilaRGVK]

Your daughter is so pretty.You are truly blessed.Quality time with your children.Great video,love the history.

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks for the kind words! I'll let my daughter know what you said - it will encourage her heart. Enjoy your day!

[@janetblickle7924]

My 2nd great Grandparents came to Oregon, where I live, in 1954 with 10 of their children. They had a baby still born and buried somewhere on the Oregon Trail. It is my life dream to go to see the Oregon Trail. Thank you for sharing your experience of the Oregon Trail.

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks, Janet! It was only after hitting some random stops when we were out there that I decided to make the video. Since the visit and further study, I too have become so fascinated with this trail and the stories that accompany it. Hope you can get out there!

[@LyudmilaRGVK]

That little Forest Ranger at Laramie is so precious! Great video.

[@AmericasParks]

Yeah, she was so helpful and coorperative! We really enjoyed her!

[@Toni62R]

So nice video, I appreciate it so much - greetings from germany!

[@AmericasParks]

Hey Toni, thanks for joining us! All the best back at ya from the USA!

[@spookygirl7761]

Yes Toni, welcome..

[@ronnideam]

I loved this so much, thank you for posting. Definitely one of my favorites on the subject!

[@AmericasParks]

Really appreciate your kind words!

[@kaylasmith1515]

Wow love the historic elements you added to this video! Great job!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks, trying to put the viewer in the historical context. Most people only tend to associate "the Oregon Trail" with the game.

[@HappyTrailsHiking]

Great video! Thanks for taking us on your trip with you!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks for watching! This was the first video from my final (of three) summer daddy/daughter trips.

[@jonathanwhitehead9253]

We just got back from a 9000 mile road trip from Maine to the west coast and back. We visited the Gurnsey ruts because of your video. Thanks!

[@AmericasParks]

Awesome, glad to hear you are back safely! 9,000 miles, what an incredible adventure. What were some of the highlights for your family?

[@jonathanwhitehead9253]

Thanks! My favorite stops were Goblin Valley State Park, climbing dunes in Pacific City, Oregon and staying at Interrorem Cabin in Olympic National Forest. Check out these places if you haven't already been to them. Keep posting the great videos. We love them!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks for watching and posting the comments, Jonathan! Encouraged by your kind words. Also appreciate your insights and suggestions!

[@its-all-happening2172]

Amazing history!

[@AmericasParks]

Really is! Would love to get back and do some more in-depth exploring and investigating. Thanks for watching!

[@sarahkrick8667]

This was awesome! Thank you!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks, Sarah! Video just kind of came together after random visits to these stops. So fascinating - would love to go back for a more extended/educated visit.

[@allanegleston4931]

im glad you said both directions . east and west.

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks for checking out the video, Allan!

[@DestinationEarth]

Another great video Randy! It is such a unique area with such an amazing history to it! I don't think it's a spot that too many people go visit which is a shame! Thanks for sharing!

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate that, Josh! So fascinated by the four "Great Trails" in our nation's history, especially the "Pony Express."

[@davidmiller5098]

Alcove Springs in Kansas is a great historical stop. Donner party camped there for five days.

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks, David! Would love to get back and really give this amazing trail more attention.

[@lethandlegend9167]

I used this for my SS assignment, and I liked the vid! good job!

[@AmericasParks]

Really appreciate you sharing your story! Glad you found the video useful. This trail is so fascinating!

[@bkinouye]

I'd like to see a group of KZbinrs form a wagon train caravan and attempt to get to Oregon on the Oregon Trail.

[@AmericasParks]

Great comment! That me laugh just trying to imagine the sight!

[@tommysimmons3258]

Couldn't do the whole thing today, have to use bridges, etc with traffic. I 84 is right beside it in Oregon.

[@colleenkennedy1934]

That's the show I'm waiting for!

[@jamessorrel]

Can you imagine KZbinrs making a raft to float a wagon?

[@OurHumbleLife]

FASCINATING! Thank you.

[@AmericasParks]

Really appreciate that! So much cool history! Knew we'd be passing through some of these places and thought I'd throw it all together in a video. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@OurHumbleLife]

So glad you did and thank you for sharing!

[@dalehilltopfarm]

Excellent!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks, Dale!

[@charlottemuller2233]

Great video!!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks so much, Charlotte! So many good memories!

[@dawnmarsh3430]

I love watching these because I learn a lot about History!! Thanks

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks, Dawn! For just a few shots we took, I was happy how this video turned out. Such cool history on the Oregon Trail!

[@jimbobxcityguy5338]

Nice video. We did all these places and more along the trail spring 2022. Hiked to top of Independence Rock,Scott's bluff. Liked your video of NH. Our Golden was in that. Great shot of her during her thing.

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks for the great comment... and sharing your dog in the video! She really has a warm disposition! Take care!

[@glennaddison952]

Nice work. Really enjoyable to watch!

[@AmericasParks]

Thank you!

[@TrekkerPat]

Nice, when we lived in Torrington WY for several months we got to explore all of this. Ti's an interesting area. Ha, even walked around Chimney Rock in winter which = no rattlers. Tried to climb part way up Chimney, but it was just toooo steep.

[@AmericasParks]

That's really cool! I am so fascinated about this kind of history. Knew we'd be passing through many of these locations and thought - why not another video! Enjoy your week!

[@Pleaver]

This is great. Thank you.

[@AmericasParks]

Really appreciate your kind words!

[@jag1870]

You're a great dad. Love your vids!

[@AmericasParks]

I really appreciate that, Anthony. Thanks and have a blessed New Year!

[@donskeezy4042]

Dang big homie this is a pretty dope video. Much love and respect to you.

[@AmericasParks]

Much appreciated, Don!

[@tld8630]

Well done ! ..my ancestors where on this trail on my moms side ..👍🤗

[@AmericasParks]

Neat to hear! So fascinated by this part of American history!

[@jimbobxcityguy5338]

I hope to get out there to WY etc again next fall. I love it. I have no desire to go to Fl or Hawaii etc at all. Imagine that. And I was a USCG licensed Captain and PADI Divemaster for many many years. Ha.

[@AmericasParks]

You have good taste, my friend!

[@glblb3030]

great video,,interesting

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate that, Guy! Thanks for watching...

[@glblb3030]

@@AmericasParks y welcome

[@glblb3030]

@@AmericasParks yw

[@Maxfli82]

So cool. I got interested in the trails playing the Oregon Trail game back in the 80s as a little kid. Then in my late 20s I got a chance to travel across the country and was able to drive by some of the sites. I have to go back and visit some of these spots that I missed. I love the fact that you show the actual parts of the trail that people trod 160 years ago

[@AmericasParks]

That was well-said, you just gave my own personal background and thoughts pertaining to this video...better than I could have said it myself! :) Thanks for watching and sharing the great comment!

[@andraslibal]

Just played the super old game called Oregon Trail ... also saw the series 1873. It is something captivating.

[@incog99skd11]

The Oregon Trail got serious in Idaho. The Idaho portion of the trail was considered the most difficult portion of the trail. After traveling 1200 miles and many months, pioneers were so let down by the desert then more desert in southern Idaho that their dairies are full of lament. Statements like, "I have never seen such a forsaken land" peppered their texts. I visited parts of the trail still existing just east of Boise. There is massacre rocks state park as well where a massacre by Indians was supposed to have taken place. At the Oregon-Idaho border, cannibalism happened after the Utter-Van Ornum party was attacked by 100 indians. The survivors, mostly children, had no supplies and resorted to eating the dead. You can visit these places as well and understand the sacrifices made by our earliest pioneers. It's, at once, sobering but at the same time inspiring how important it was to these pioneers to make a new life in spite of the dangers. Your video puts attention on saving what is left of the trails. They are threatened by development. Thank you.

[@AmericasParks]

That was fascinating to read! Thanks for taking the time to share these gems of history for myself and others that may chose to watch the video. So much respect for these guys. Would love to spend more time learning about their personal journeys - even visiting more sections of this incredible trail myself. Have a great week!

[@rockyethridge7272]

Thanks for sharing ✌😷

[@AmericasParks]

My pleasure! Super-interesting to visit those historic sites!

[@ElisabethGrace22]

These are definitely favorite areas of the trails for me. Scottsbluff is just stunning. Chimney Rock is in such a beautiful area. It has a little cemetery just off the parking area which I enjoy visiting. Register Cliff is starting to have modern day signatures on it which I find sad. I wish folks would prefer to walk the old trail ruts, rather than add their names to Register Cliff or Independence Rock. The Guernsey Ruts are incredibly deep. I'm a big trail buff and had my daughter posing in these ruts starting at the age of 3. Independence Rock is a bit farther on, but also worth the trip. Thanks for the video.

[@AmericasParks]

Really enjoyed reading your comment! Would love to follow this entire trail... fascinated by the history!

[@MattCookOregon]

This is awesome

[@AmericasParks]

Thank you very much!

[@ldyoung7938]

As my younger son Matthew and I were riding around Hood River, Oregon some years ago I was wondering how many of those vineyards and fruit orchards were operated by descendants of those early settlers, probably a substantial number. Thanks for another great video. Stay safe!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks! Same here - really enjoyed experiencing this piece of US history.

[@pbcoop62]

Great video, I took a similar trip in 2017 too.

[@AmericasParks]

Neat to hear! Would love to explore this segment of American history in even more depth. Take care!

[@Mikey-Likes-It_101]

Randy, good job on making history interesting. I have visited the Oregon Trail sites in Idaho (my favorite is Three Island Crossing State Park, which the NPS lists as part of the National Historic Trail). But, I don’t think I stopped at these sites in Nebraska. THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR VISIT, . . . Mike

[@AmericasParks]

I really enjoyed these places too. So fascinated by this aspect of US history!

[@MicroValley]

Great video!! I’ve wanted to do this myself one day 😊

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate that, Miles! So fascinated by this stuff!

[@Killswitch1411]

I did my own Oregon trail by Car from the Midwest.. Moved to Oregon in 2017.

[@AmericasParks]

Epic road trip! Hope you are enjoying your time of the West Coast.

[@Killswitch1411]

@@AmericasParks It's been pretty epic, so much to see and do in such close proximity. Oregon had some pretty bad Wild fires last year along side covid like everyone else. I really enjoy the videos and the ones especially with history injected into them. Hope your 2021 is going well!

[@ClayCeramics]

Great video! It's too bad Chimney Rock Visitor Center was closed. If you would have kept up the road and taken a right where the road ended it would have taken you much closer to a dead end with a cemetery. You can walk right up to the base of the monument. I grew up about a mile west of there and miss that view!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks, Bryan! Need to keep that one in mind. Many under-appreciate the incredible history and beauty of Western Nebraska. Love it out there. Take care!

[@Nerding4Nature]

Great video! I recognize lots of this from the computer game :D

[@AmericasParks]

That game has probably given the trail more exposure than anything else. I remember when computers be popular in the late 80's/early 90's - Oregon Trail was one of your only options!

[@mikesmith3866]

Snake Gaiters are advisable for many of these places. Prairie Rattlers all over!

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate the advice, Mike!

[@jabber1990]

you know what'd be really cool? find some of the descendants of these settlers and travelers and show them the name of their ancestor "Jeff, this is the name of your Great-Great-Great-Great-Great-Grandfather"

[@AmericasParks]

Yeah, great point! That would really be interesting. This Oregon Trail stuff really fascinates me. Hope to get back some day and provide a more comprehensive video.

[@bellamarley9455]

That's cool!!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks so much, Bella! So cool to explore that aspect of US history!

[@RobertLWard]

Finally! The start of Round 3 from the summer! Looking forward to seeing the rest of this part! This video is a great start to your trip.Where did you fly too to begin your trip? Looks like you put lots of miles on the rental.

[@AmericasParks]

Thought I relied, but somehow the words have disappeared. Another KZbin glitch or my weakening memory!

[@AmericasParks]

We flew into Denver and drove up to ND and then back down the Wyoming side.

[@RobertLWard]

Cool. so this video was near the end of the trip?

[@AmericasParks]

Actually it was throughout the trip! First 3 stops on the day we arrived. Final 2 stops on final 2 days of the trip. I plan a separate video for Scotts Bluff and Fort Laramie too.

[@Astro-wj2ro]

subscribed!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks! Have a super day!

[@blusnuby2]

Fun trip; thanks for sharing. I can sense your enthusiasm & excitement about this amazing chapter in American History. Now that your appetite is wetted, read: WAGONS WEST by Frank McLynn, for every last detail of this epic journey.

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks for the kind words and recommendation!

[@tammysipe154]

this is my social studies lesson in 2020, lol

[@AmericasParks]

That's cool, Tammy! Such a fascinating study!

[@djmerrell9644]

Did you know there's a cemetery at Chimney Rock of pioneers who died there?

[@AmericasParks]

No I didn't... thanks for sharing that.

[@RickTerry-z9k]

She has a nice shirt on! Pineapples with upside down pineapples!

[@yelloweaglepolitics9748]

what is the song used in 5:07

[@AmericasParks]

Sorry old music subscription plan I no long use. Thanks for watching!

[@LyudmilaRGVK]

To really appreciate the hardships endured by the early settlers,people should watch a movie called "Westward the women", starring Robert Taylor and Linda Darnell.

[@AmericasParks]

Good point! Thanks for the suggestion!

[@luler0]

Best

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks for joining us, Gareth!

[@marcokensler7906]

“Bonage footage” 😂😂😂

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks, Marco! Hope you have a great weekend!

[@SenjaAldee]

uuh snake... + 1 like here too

[@AmericasParks]

Yes, I remember you do not like snakes!

[@andrewjao3336]

1:16 perspective

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks for joining us, Andrew! These historical stops were so amazing!

[@michaelkurz9067]

I will tell you what the travelers said especially the women folks.wish I'd never left wish I'd never sold my good furniture DAMN MY HUSBAND

[@AmericasParks]

Yeah... I'm sure that a common line! The dream for success and riches was definitely unfulfilled for many.

[@karendavenport2721]

Why is that woman wearing flip flops!!

[@AmericasParks]

Your guess is as good as mine. Thanks for watching this one from the archives!

[@chadhaire1711]

What the hell are these "hiking shoes" these two are wearing? LOL.......seriously?? Green horn city folks for sure.....

[@AmericasParks]

Wasn't really a hike, Chad. Super tired as we just arrived after a long day of traveling. Only few yards from the car to stage some quick video before sunset.

[@andrewgiordano5275]

It doesn't seem like a good idea to be walking around those areas in flip flops,just sayin.

[@AmericasParks]

Agree. Just off the plane, short stroll and heading to our first campsite. Wouldn't want to learn a painful lesson the hard way.