Oregon Trail — Goodale's Cutoff

Goodale’s Cutoff was a 230 mile-long northern alternate to the main Oregon Trail. The main Trail followed the Snake River across southern Idaho. After 1863, most emigrant’s used Goodale’s Cutoff in an effort to avoid hostilities with American Indians, which were escalating along the main Trail.

Location: Goodale’s Cutoff traverses the northern portion of the Shoshone Field Office. Excellent trail remnants are visible in several locations. A good place to see the route is along Highway 20/26/93, between Craters of the Moon National Monument and Carey. It winds through the northern end of the monument out of sight of the road and intersects the highway 3.5 miles west of the visitor center. Contact Craters of the Moon or the Shoshone Field Office for additional information.

Facilities/Fees: None