The Oregon-California Trails Association is an interdisciplinary organization based at Independence, Missouri. OCTA is dedicated to the preservation and protection of overland emigrant trails and the emigrant experience.

Three major historical trails crossed America's western territories as wagon train routes to Santa Fe, Oregon, and California.

The Santa Fe Trail began in 1821 as a 900-mile foreign trade route to New Mexico. It was unique in American History due to its overland commerce routes rather than seafaring transportation.

The 2,000-mile Oregon Trail became more heavily traveled in 1843 by settlers wanting to establish new homes in the northwest.

Other pioneers forked off on the equally long and grueling California Trail to seek their fortunes in the gold fields. Together, these three rugged pathways and their pioneers changed the face and history of America

See also

• National Historic Trails

External links

• About OCTA

History of the American West | Hiking trails in North America | Historic trails and roads in the United States