The Bridger Trail, opened in 1864, offered a safer alternative to the Bozeman Trail for prospectors looking to make their fortune in the Montana gold rush. Famous mountain man and guide, Jim Bridger, created the trail west of the Big Horn Mountains. This new route skirted the Powder River Basin and dangerous conflicts between the U.S. Army and Northern Plains Indians. The trail, used for just one emigrant season, was a forerunner to modern-day transportation routes.
Jim Bridger was a living legend of his time. Bridger’s geographical knowledge of the western frontier was unparalleled; he was indispensable for his mapping abilities and guide skills.
These are Wyoming's golden days. Aspen leaves dance in the sunlight, with dabs of red and orange dappling the roadsides, too. The air is bracing, the skies are a brilliant blue, and you might just hear elk bugling. Late September and early October are perfect times to plan a long weekend exploring Wyoming's fall splendor. read more
The Bridger and Teton national forests merged and became one national forest, bringing nearly 3.5 million acres and the present six ranger districts under one supervisory headquarters. read more
