Place

Milner Historic Recreation Area Swales

Narrow open path through dried grass and sagebrush marking Oregon Trail swales
Oregon Trail Swales at Milner Historic Recreation Area

Quick Facts
Location:
9 miles west of Burley, Idaho on the south side of the Snake River
Significance:
Visible Oregon Trail ruts
Designation:
Historic Recreation Area

Over 100 years ago, emigrants on the Oregon Trail passed through what is now Milner Historic Recreation Area , creating ruts as they traveled through the soft soil of the area. Some of the emigrants chose to camp here, resting before continuing on the long journey ahead. 

The ruts across the loop road here in a couple of places. The shallow trough-like swale can be seen extending on both sides of the road through the grassy landscape dotted with sagebrush. Small white posts labeled "Oregon Trail" mark the position of the swale. Access to the swale is blocked by a rail fence.

Site Information

Location (9 miles west of Burley, Idaho on the south side of the Snake River)

Safety Considerations

More Site Information

Oregon National Historic Trail

Oregon National Historic Trail

Last updated: January 16, 2023