Glenns Ferry in Elmore County, Idaho — The American West (Mountains)

"A Most Dangerous Crossing"

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, May 16, 2018

1. "A Most Dangerous Crossing" Marker

Inscription. "...we rode as much as half mile in crossing and against the current too, which made it hard for the horses, the water being up to their sides. Husband had considerable difficultly in crossing the cart. Both cart and mules were turned upside down in the river and entangled in the harness..." -- Narcissa Whitman - August 13, 1836

Upon reaching the Three Island Crossing of the Snake River, usually by mid-August, Oregon Trail pioneers had a difficult decision to make. Should they cross the sometimes dangerous Snake River using the islands as giant stepping stones or endure the safer but drier route on the south bank of the river? About half of the pioneers attempted the crossing, with diary accounts of many deaths and greater loss of personal belongings. A successful crossing meant a shorter route and better food for the livestock.
The Three Island Ford was used by the Oregon Trail pioneers until 1869, when Gus Glenn constructed a ferry about two miles upstream.

"...having attempted the crossing and finding it too deep, were obliged to continue down on the South. This is perhaps, the most rugged desert and dreary country, between the Western borders of the United States and the shores of the Pacific..." -- Journal quote from the Applegate Group - 1843

Topics and series.

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This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Disasters • Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the Oregon Trail series list. A significant historical date for this entry is August 13, 1836.

Location. 42° 55.794′ N, 115° 19.764′ W. Marker is in Glenns Ferry, Idaho, in Elmore County. Marker can be reached from Solobal Road near Rosevear Gulch Road. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Glenns Ferry ID 83623, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 2 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Over 500 Miles Step-by-Step (here, next to this marker); To All Pioneers (approx. 0.9 miles away); The Three Island Ford (approx. 0.9 miles away); Motor Homes Without Motors (approx. 0.9 miles away); The Oregon Trail (approx. 0.9 miles away); Idaho's Bicentennial Wagon (approx. 0.9 miles away); Site 1 ★ Two Island Crossing (approx. 1.9 miles away); Glenn's Ferry (approx. 2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Glenns Ferry.

More about this marker. This marker is located on a short trail below Three Island Crossing overlook, which in turn is located on an unnamed road leading north from Solobal Road. It is easier to find than describe.

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, May 16, 2018

2. "A Most Dangerous Crossing" Marker

Marker on the right

Three Island Crossing image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, May 16, 2018

3. Three Island Crossing

Credits. This page was last revised on October 30, 2018. It was originally submitted on October 30, 2018, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 441 times since then and 47 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on October 30, 2018, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.