In 1877, 750 anti-treaty Nez Perce fled from Lake Wallowa, Oregon to Canada, which they considered their last option for a peaceful life. Pursued by U.S. Army forces, the Nez Perce took a circuitous route through four states before ultimately ending at Bear Paw Battlefield, Montana, just 40 miles shy of the Canadian border. It was here that Chief Joseph, concerned for the women and children of the tribe, surrendered and promised to “fight no more forever.”
The Nez Perce Trail is more than 1,170 miles long and was used only once in its entirety. The portion of the trail that passes through Wyoming bisects the northwestern corner of the state at Yellowstone National Park and Sunlight Basin.
The first fort in Wyoming was started as a fur trade post in 1834, known as Fort John. Located near the Laramie River, it had become Fort Laramie by 1849 when the military took control. The fort's grounds just west of the town of Fort Laramie in southeast Wyoming have an open parade ground surrounded by military-era buildings. One structure, Old Bedlam, is the oldest standing building in the State of Wyoming. At or near Fort Laramie, fur traders, overland emigrants, the frontier army and Indians gathered as they came to trade, work and meet. read more
Wyoming is often called the first state in outdoor America. From the thrill seeker to the nature lover, Wyoming has something to please everyone. read more
