California Trail Interpretive Center

Curious about the California Trail? While many are familiar with the Oregon Trail, the California Trail is equally legendary, filled with stories of hope, hardships, and transformation. This historic route stretched thousands of miles across the West, turning travelers’ dreams and Native American ways of life into destinies marked by both gain and loss.

Between 1841 and 1869, thousands of pioneers traveled nearly 2,000 miles from the Missouri River to the Sierra Nevada Mountains and beyond. Driven by hopes of fertile land, religious freedom, and gold, their journey was far from easy. Along the way, they faced disease, conflict, and dangerous terrain, including the infamous Donner Party disaster. Despite these hardships, people kept coming, lured by the promise of prosperity and adventure.

Visit the California Trail Interpretive Center in Elko, Nevada, to explore the people and stories behind this epic journey. Experience interactive exhibits, sit in a pioneer wagon, and learn about the indigenous cultures forever changed by this chapter of United States history. To learn more, visit our partner webpage, California Trail Interpretive Center.

Hours and Admission

Admission fees: Free to the public

Facility Hours: The Trail Center and surrounding grounds are open Wednesday through Sunday from 8:30 am — 5 pm.

Holiday Closures: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day

Group Visits: Educational and recreational groups are welcome! Please provide advance notice for group sizes over 20 by calling 775-738-1849. See the For Educators page for information about bringing students to the Center on a field trip.

Address

1 Trail Center Way
Elko, NV 89801 

The California Trail Interpretive Center is located off I-80, at Hunter Exit 292, 8 miles west of Elko, Nevada. Take Exit 292 off I- 80. Drive past the kiosk and through the entrance gate. The Trail Center is 0.5 miles down the road.

RV and bus parking is available.

Features and Services

At the Trail Center, explore multimedia exhibits, life-size dioramas, original art, and videos. Engage with our knowledgeable staff to learn more about the history of the area. Enjoy nearly a mile of easy hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Ruby Mountains, South Fork Canyon, and the Humboldt River.

Ranger-guided programs and living history demonstrations may be available during your visit; check the Activities and Events page in advance and look for posted signs when you arrive for same-day events. Self-guided activities can be picked up at the front desk anytime, including a Junior Ranger book, a Visitor Center scavenger hunt, and a Spanish-language guide to translate exhibits.;

Special Events

See the Activities and Events page for special events including community gatherings, guest presentations, living history demonstrations, Trail Days, and Pioneer Christmas.

The Trail Center is available as staffing allows for public meetings, community gatherings, and other types of non-profit events. It is not available for private rentals.

School Groups

See the For Educators page for information about bringing students on a field trip to the Trail Center or having a ranger visit your classroom. Resources for educators, including self-guided field trips and lesson plans, are also available.

Get Involved

Partners: The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center is operated by the Bureau of Land Management with support from the Nevada Outdoor School.

Volunteers: We welcome volunteers to help further the mission of the Center and the BLM. There is a volunteer opportunity for everyone! Contact us for more information. Donations are also welcome.

Contact Us

775-738-1849
pbrownlee@blm.gov