Wagons along the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails continued to trickle over South Pass until 1912, though the trails had largely been abandoned as a transportation corridor after the completion of the Union Pacific portion of the Transcontinental Railroad in 1869. However, freight wagons and stage coaches continued to utilize the tracks of the earlier emigrants. Later, automobiles, too, followed the routes of those who crossed "Uncle Sam's Backbone" over South Pass. The modern, paved highway over the Pass was completed after World War II. The geographic pass, and what little remains are visible of the Oregon-California-Mormon-Pony Express Trails, are best viewed from the well-signed pull-out a few miles south of the Sweetwater River. Interpretive panels explain the history and geography of the Pass. |
| Facilities: |
Interpretive displays and monuments. |
| Directions: |
Along Highway 28, between Farson and South Pass City, approximately 42 miles southwest of Lander. To reach the pass, drive east from the Overlook on the Oregon Buttes Road for approximately 3.5 miles and then south for about one mile on the old Oregon Trail. |
| Coordinates: |
Map Coordinates (NAD83): 42 22.176N; 108 54.843W |
| Weather: |
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