If sagebrush and wagon ruts could speak, just imagine the stories they could tell of Wyoming’s earliest residents! Fortunately for us, a visit to South Pass City, Wyoming, might just be the next best thing. South Pass has a unique history as the state’s biggest and first Gold Rush town. It had its peak around 1868 when over 1,000 miners and tradesmen called the town home — until 1872 when there was a mass exodus. But this Wyoming ghost town didn’t disappear entirely.
Today, the South Pass City Historic Site is a bustling slice of living Central Wyoming history, where visitors can experience and admire the fantastic historic remnants of the town, which are carefully preserved and maintained by the BLM. But South Pass isn’t just for history buffs; nature lovers will enjoy it as well! To get an even more fantastic picture of the town as a whole, visitors will find a number of beautiful trails crisscrossing the historic site. And soon, there will be even more trails to enjoy on your next visit.
Originally a part of the Sweetwater Mining District, which was comprised of three of Wyoming's most famous 19th Century Gold Rush towns, South Pass City near Lander has quite an impressive history.
The town emerged during the mid-19th century as a vital waypoint for pioneers and miners heading westward during the California Gold Rush and later the Wyoming Gold Rush. In 1867, significant gold deposits were discovered in the area, leading to a boom in population and economic activity. South Pass City quickly grew into a bustling mining town, boasting a population of over 2,000 residents at its peak.
South Pass was strategically situated along the Oregon, California, and Mormon Pioneer Trails, making it a crucial stop for travelers seeking fortune or new opportunities out west. South Pass City was also a hub for commerce and served as the seat of government for Sweetwater County.
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But this isn't any old Boom Town. South Pass City also holds a significant place in the history of women's suffrage in the United States. In December 1869, the Wyoming Territorial Legislature passed a groundbreaking piece of legislation known as the "Act to Grant to the Women of Wyoming Territory the Right of Suffrage."
This made Wyoming the first place in the world to grant women the right to vote in all elections, including for public office. South Pass City, being one of the most prominent settlements in the territory at the time, played a part in this historic development.
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Although South Pass City went through several booms throughout its history, none were enough to sustain the town. In 1966, Wyoming's 75th Anniversary Commission purchased the town and mine.
South Pass itself is relatively small, only encompassing a few acres, but it is made up of over 17 restored buildings that have stood the test of time. When volunteer staffing allows, visitors can even tour each of the structures to catch an authentic glimpse of Wyoming life in the mid-1800s.
Current trails around South Pass City include the three-mile Volksmarch Trail, which offers a plethora of wildlife viewing opportunities, as well as a part of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.
Coming soon, there will be around six new miles of trails, each spurring off of the existing paths around the historic ghost town. They'll travel 7,400 to 8,000 feet in elevation and pass historic sites like mine shafts and even an overlook.
The hope is that these trails will allow more visitors to enjoy the sweeping beauty of the area, dive into Wyoming's quiet recesses, and show off the pristine public lands that make this corner of Wyoming so special.
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With so much natural beauty in the area, adding a few new paths through the prairie adjacent to town is the next step towards making this historical site even better, and we can't wait to slap on some boots and explore when the trails open.
The trail plans at South Pass are still in its infancy, but we're hoping to see these paths start coming to life in the next year or so. Stay tuned!
South Pass City stands as a fantastic testament to the adventurous spirit and tenacity of those who ventured west in search of a better life during the expansion of the U.S. This is one off-the-beaten-path destination that’s well worth a visit on your next road trip! The South Pass City State Historic Site is typically open May-October. Learn more about amenities and what to expect on the Wyoming Parks website.
If you’ve ever visited South Pass City, let us know your favorite stops along the way! And if you plan to stay overnight in the area, mark your calendars: this stunning home near Sinks Canyon is the perfect getaway for your history-filled getaway.
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