Historic Mormon Trail Site [Alcova WY] While enjoying the beautiful nature driving across Wyoming on State Highway 220 we found this historic site, a Mormon Trail Site located near Devil's Gate. We were approached by a friendly welcoming volunteer... she proceeded to share a little history of this place. In 1856 two emigrant companies (a handcart and a wagon business) of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints crossed the plains trying to reach Utah. Weather was harsh and the cold wind and snow made it too dangerous to proceed to their destination in Salt Lake City which was still about 330 miles. The emigrants sheltered here while waiting to be rescued. Exhaustion, exposure and lack of food had weakened the emigrants and many had died before rescue efforts began. The docent was very informative. Throughout this historic site, there were monuments, memorials, and sculptures commemorating the rescue. There were also handcarts visitors can push to experience. There is a trail leading to Devil's Gate that we would've loved to hike but didn't have time. She said people visit the cove as a place of reverence, remembrance, and gratitude and during summer months Latter-day Saints participate in trek reenactments. To request a trek will require reservations. Learned about Mormon pioneers here. Park is free to visit. Review #3474 read more

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