During your visit to the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center, you can explore interactive exhibits based on accurate, real-life historical information that will help you further enhance your understanding of western history. Be sure to stop by the Bookstore, carrying items related to the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center and Wyoming.
Exhibits
The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center’s interactive and engaging exhibits bring Wyoming and U.S. history to life. The Center interprets Native American culture and the historic trails used by the pioneers emigrating west while other exhibits explore the Pony Express Trail and the Transcontinental Telegraph.
Footsteps to the West
Start your visit to the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center with Footsteps to the West. This 18-minute film uses light, sound and images to re-create the lives of the pioneers who traveled west. Many of the stories shared throughout the film were taken from the journals and diaries of pioneers.
Wagon Ride
Crossing the North Platte River was often a perilous undertaking for the pioneers: at times the river stretched 300 yards across and four feet deep. Take a virtual wagon ride and feel the bumps and jolts of the wagon as you make your way across the North Platte River.
Hand Cart
Nearly 3,000 Mormon converts made their journey westward pushing and pulling heavy hand carts. Push a virtual hand cart and see if you have what it takes to make it over the Rocky Mountains.
Hear Their Story: The Martin Hand Cart Company Rescue
The National Historic Trails Interpretive Cernter’s dramatization of the Heber McBride family will take you back to 1856. The Heber McBride family were part of the Martin Company that faced terrible perils during their journey westward. Words throughout the nine-minute presentation were taken from the Heber McBride family’s diaries.
Ride in a Stagecoach
Climb into the Center’s virtual stagecoach. During the ride you can experience the sights and sounds of passengers traveling west.
Be sure to stop by the Center’s Bookstore, stocked with items related to the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center and Wyoming. From history books about the Oregon, California, Mormon and Pony Express Trails to Wyoming-made gifts and keepsakes, there is something everyone can enjoy in the Bookstore.
Travel Tips
- The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center is ADA compliant.
- Printed guides are available to help you make the most out of your visit to the Center.