On the trail again

Saturday morning, we headed out on our own trek west.  However instead of taking the smooth highways and speedy interstate, we headed back across the Mississippi River and then south again through Lincoln City to Montrose Crossing.....

Montrose Crossing was the place that the Saints entered into Iowa after crossing the Mississippi River.  Whether by ferry as many of the wagons did or those who crossed on the frozen river, this was the location of their landing and the beginning of their journey.  Our goal for the next four days was to follow the path of the Mormon and Oregon trails as they traveled through Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming, and into Utah.  Using some maps we had gathered, our "Maps" aps on our phones, and watching for the brown historical signs along the way, we hoped to be reminded of the past and strengthen our connections with those who had traveled before us.

In Iowa and Nebraska, there are signs for the "Auto Tour" of the Oregon, Mormon, and Pony Express trails.  This tour did not go exactly the path of any of the trails as that won't be possible.  Modern roads didn't have to avoid certain parts of rivers or inclines too steep for oxen to climb so they take a much more direct way that those traveling by wagon or horse.  However this auto tour traveled nearby the trails and many of the sights we wanted to see were near by a few miles from the road.

Again, a reminder:  I took over 2000 photos and I love history.  I know you have seen a lot from Nauvoo but I am only getting started.  We had four days where we traveled, stopped, took pictures, hopped back in the RV and traveled some more and repeated the process.  We stopped along the road for most of the brown historical markers along the way (Some were great and others seemed out of place, but all part of the adventure.)  And along the way, we not only saw bits of history that we were looking for, but we also had a touch of life today as well.

So enjoy the journey as we travel again the Mormon and Oregon Trails!

(Sidenote:  People have asked me if we recommend this trip to other people.  The answer is "it depends".  You must enjoy driving in the car on side roads, through little towns, and miles of dirt roads.  You must be okay that you missed a spot that you hoped to see and experience.  And you can't be in a hurry--because it really isn't a hurrying type of vacation.  If you fit the above description, come on over and we will share our maps, etc. with you.  If not, read a book about pioneers' journeys or simply read our blog.)