Center Sights - Interpretive Trail System

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A 4.2 mile trail system loops around Flagstaff Hill and leads visitors to a series of viewpoints and historic sites, including that portion of the Oregon Trail ruts crossing the Center's boundary.

The trail system beckons visitors to step into history and walk the way of the pioneers. The trail loop includes an elevation of 372 feet, with the average hiking time round-trip to the Oregon Trail ruts being 1 hour and 30 minutes. Smoking is not permitted on the grounds or along the hiking trails, and there are no drinking fountains or restrooms along the trails. Canteens or water bottles are recommended for those planning to hike any distance. Shade structures and benches along the trail system allow visitors a restful interlude along the way. The route is barrier-free, designed at no greater than a 5% grade.

Exhibit panels assist visitors in learning more about the views afforded along the route. Breathtaking vistas from atop Flagstaff Hill feature the Blue Mountains to the northwest, the vast expanse of Virtue Flat to the southeast, and the beautiful backdrop of the Elkhorn Range overlooking Baker Valley. The shaded Panorama Point Overlook provides visitors an opportunity to pause and ponder the natural beauty of the area, as well as the magnitude of the Oregon Trail migration.

Further along the trail system, visitors may view the original trace of the Oregon Trail route, identified by a 1906 stone marker placed by Ezra Meeker, an 1853 pioneer who inaugurated and championed Oregon Trail preservation efforts until his death in 1928.

Hiking Trail Map

To view and download a copy of our hiking trail map (PDF), click here.