National Mormon Trails Association
Historical Sites
Explore the National Mormon Trail
Discover the Heritage
Carthage
Carthage Jail is a historic building in Carthage, Illinois. It was built in 1839 and is best known as the location of the 1844 martyrdom of Joseph Smith, founder of the Latter-Day Saint movement.
Nauvoo
Once a thriving Mormon settlement and known as the Mormon headquarters for seven years during which time the church flourished, and the settlement quickly became one of the largest cities in Illinois.
Garden Grove/ Mt. Pisgah
First two of three way-stations used by the Saints from 1846 to 1852, at its height Mount Pisgah had over 2,000 inhabitants. Like Garden Grove, it was a semi-permanent camp for the benefit of the Saints who followed the Pioneer Company coming out of Nauvoo.
Kanesville / Council Bluffs
Kanesville, Iowa, now known as Council Bluffs, was once a haven for Mormons forced out of Nauvoo, Illinois. Kanesville became a key settlement for the religion.
Winter Quarters
Winter Quarters was settled with permission from the Native Americans. The Saints settled for a time in Oto land in Nebraska and on Pottawattamie land in Iowa. The natives were kind to the outcast whites at a time of great need. The Saints moved away as promised after 2 years, some to Salt Lake and others stayed in Iowa until 1852 when their leadership asked them to come to Utah. This area was used by the Saints for many years as an outfitting place.
O'Fallon's Bluff
The bluffs close proximity to the river forced the emigrant trails onto a narrow path that went up and over the bluffs. Over time, as thousands of wagons, emigrants, and livestock went up the rise, ruts were carved into the dry bluffs. These ruts are still visible today.
Independence Rock
Independence Rock served as a crucial landmark for Mormons on the long trek west. Thousands of pioneers paused here, carving their names and messages into the granite, leaving a testament to their faith and perseverance.
Martin's Cove
Pay homage to the pioneers' perseverance at Martin's Cove, where the handcart companies sought refuge amidst harsh conditions, demonstrating unwavering faith and determination.
Rock Creek
Rock Creek Hollow where the Willie handcart company sheltered after the difficult ascent of Rocky Ridge during a severe snowstorm in the fall of 1856.
Fort Bridger
Explore the historic outpost of Fort Bridger, a vital stop for weary travelers and a testament to the spirit of resilience that defined the pioneers' westward migration.
Echo Canyon
Follow in the footsteps of the Mormon Battalion as they blazed a trail through Echo Canyon, leaving behind a legacy of courage and sacrifice.
This Is The Place
Stand where Brigham Young declared, "This is the place," marking the end of the Mormon pioneers' arduous journey and the beginning of a new era in the Salt Lake Valley.
Join Our Group
As a member of the National Mormon Trails Association, you join a community that celebrates the history and maintains the trail’s resonant voice.