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Oregon Trail Ruts State Historic Site, just outside of Guernsey, Wyoming, preserves a section of solid rock that has been cut into by history. The site is only a short drive from Fort Laramie National Historic Site, and you can visit both on the same day.
Overview of Oregon Trail Ruts State Historic Site
The site protects some of the best preserved wagon ruts along the entire Oregon, California, and Mormon trails. Follow the short loop trail from the parking lot to see the ruts. There are a few interpretive panels at the beginning of the trail and more along the way. You’ll also find a small picnic shelter and restrooms. The site is open daily and there’s no admission (as of January 2026).
The ruts were made by brave pioneers heading west in the mid-19th century. Thousands of wagon wheels grinding on the rock created the ruts over several years, between 1841 and 1868, eventually cutting through five feet of solid sandstone in some places. The site was declared a National Historic Landmark on May 23, 1966, and added to the National Register of Historic Places later that year on October 15.
Grave of Lucindy Rollins
Nearby is the grave of Lucindy Rollins, a pioneer who originally began her trek west in Dayton, Ohio, most likely heading to California. She died in 1849 and was buried near the North Platte River. Her cause of death is unknown.
Rollins’ grave was lost over the years, as were many others along the trail. It was rediscovered in 1934 when a man named William E. Smith Jr. was out duck hunting. He stumbled upon the original headstone, which was later moved to a local museum. A new headstone and landscaped grave were later rededicated to Rollins and all the pioneer women of Wyoming.
