The Trappers’ Trail of Colorado and Wyoming
The Trappers’ Trail of Colorado and Wyoming whispers tales of rugged mountain men, bustling trade, and the relentless push westward. This historic route, etched into the landscape of the American West, served as a vital artery connecting the Santa Fe Trail with the Great Platte River Road. Nestled along the eastern edge of the formidable Rocky Mountains, it facilitated the movement of goods, people, and information, playing a significant role in the development of the region.
The Trappers’ Trail emerged as a crucial link between Bent’s Old Fort in Colorado, a prominent hub on the Santa Fe Trail, and Fort Laramie in Wyoming, a key outpost along the Great Platte River Road. This connection fostered trade and communication between these two significant transportation corridors, allowing for the exchange of goods and the flow of pioneers heading westward.
The journey along the Trappers’ Trail commenced at Bent’s Fort, strategically situated along the Arkansas River. From there, the trail followed the course of the river northward, leading to the burgeoning settlement of Pueblo. Continuing its northward trajectory, the route traced Fountain and Cherry Creeks, eventually merging with the South Platte River. Travelers then followed the South Platte downstream to the area of present-day Greeley, Colorado, before veering north towards its final destination, Fort Laramie.
North of Colorado Springs, a fascinating divergence existed along the Trappers’ Trail. For a stretch of approximately 75 miles north of the South Platte River, near the modern metropolis of Denver, three distinct routes offered travelers alternatives. The oldest of these routes, hugging the foothills of the mountains, snaked along Fountain, Monument, and East Plum Creeks. A middle variant, often referred to as the Cherry Creek Trail, generally followed the path of West Cherry Creek. The third route, sometimes called the Jimmy Camp Trail, lay to the east of Jimmy Camp Creek, eventually rejoining the middle trail near the present-day town of Franktown. The existence of these variant routes highlights the evolving nature of the trail and the adaptation of travelers to the terrain and conditions.
The Trappers’ Trail of Colorado and Wyoming wasn’t just a path; it was a lifeline. Along its course, a network of forts and trading posts emerged, serving as vital nodes for commerce and interaction. These establishments provided trappers, fur traders, and travelers with essential supplies, shelter, and opportunities for trade. Bent’s Fort and El Pueblo Trading Post, situated on the Arkansas River, served as key hubs for trade with Native American tribes and the exchange of goods from the Santa Fe Trail. Further north, along the South Platte River in Colorado, Forts Vasquez, Lupton, Jackson, and St. Vrain provided similar services. And, of course, Fort Laramie in Wyoming, located on the North Platte River, stood as a major military and trading center, overseeing a vast territory and playing a crucial role in westward expansion.
The story of the Trappers’ Trail extends back to at least 1820, when Major Stephen H. Long, an explorer and engineer, traversed the route during his expedition to the Rocky Mountains. Subsequently, the trail was utilized by Colonel Henry Dodge and his Dragoons in 1835, solidifying its importance for military movements and reconnaissance. The famed explorer Lieutenant John C. Fremont also utilized the trail during his expeditions of 1842 and 1843, contributing to the mapping and understanding of the region. In 1845, General Stephen W. Kearney and his troops marched along the route, further establishing its significance for military operations. However, the Trappers’ Trail truly came into its own during the Colorado Gold Rush of 1859, when it became a major thoroughfare for prospectors and settlers seeking their fortune in the goldfields.
The Trappers’ Trail was also interconnected with other significant routes of the era. It linked with the Taos Trail, which connected Santa Fe and Taos in New Mexico, to Bent’s Fort in Colorado. This connection further expanded the reach of the Trappers’ Trail, facilitating trade and travel throughout the Southwest and the Great Plains.
The legacy of the Trappers’ Trail remains palpable in the landscapes of Colorado and Wyoming. While the trail itself may no longer be a clearly defined path, its historical significance is undeniable. It stands as a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the trappers, traders, and pioneers who shaped the American West. The forts and trading posts that once dotted its course may be gone or reduced to ruins, but their stories continue to resonate, reminding us of a time when the West was still wild and the possibilities seemed limitless.
The Trappers’ Trail is more than just a historical route; it’s a symbol of a transformative era in American history. It represents the ambition, hardship, and ultimately the triumph of those who dared to venture into the unknown, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape and the culture of the American West. By understanding the history of this trail, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities and nuances of westward expansion and the enduring legacy of the individuals who braved its challenges.