Lander in Fremont County, Wyoming — The American West (Mountains)
Twin Mounds
Photographed By Jean Lachance, October 20, 2023
1. Twin Mounds Marker
The Twin Mounds are a minor landmark along the Trail. These low hills on either side of the Trail helped keep emigrants headed in the right direction on the final climb to South Pass.
After the wagons passed between the Mounds, they fanned out abreast across the plain. The ruts in the plain at the foot of the Twin Mounds are a fine example of parallel rut systems.
Williarn Clayton described this portion of the Trail in his Latter-Day Saints' emigrants' Guide published in 1848. Under the last entry for the Sweetwater River, Clayton wrote, "Good place to camp. After traveling seven miles beyond this, and passing between the Twin Mounds, you will find a good camping place a quarter of a mile north of the road."
Many emigrant journals record passing several graves in the area of the Twin Mounds between the Sweetwater River and South Pass.
Erected by Bureau of Land Management.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Immigration • Roads & Vehicles • Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the Mormon Pioneer Trail, and the Oregon Trail series lists.
Location. 42° 19.808′ N, 108° 58.382′ W. Marker
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 5 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. The Way West (a few steps from this marker); The Corridor West (within shouting distance of this marker); The Fur Trade (within shouting distance of this marker); South Pass (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named South Pass (within shouting distance of this marker); Pacific Springs (approx. 1.4 miles away); Narcissa Prentiss Whitman (approx. 4˝ miles away); Old Oregon Trail (approx. 4˝ miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Lander.
Credits. This page was last revised on December 21, 2023. It was originally submitted on December 6, 2023, by Jean Lachance of Ile-Bizard, Quebec. This page has been viewed 62 times since then and 28 times this year. Photo 1. submitted on December 6, 2023, by Jean Lachance of Ile-Bizard, Quebec. • Andrew Ruppenstein was the editor who published this page.
Editor’s want-list for this marker. Wide shot of the marker in context • Can you help?
