"A widely reported Indian attack occurred in the Massacre Rocks area on August 9, 1862. Two small wagon trains were attacked, and eight men and one woman were killed. Some of the participants believed that white men were involved in the skirmishes."

Emigrant Trails of Southern Idaho, p. 31 (Hereafter ETSI)


"Gate of Death" and "Devil's Gate" were names given to this area during the Oregon Trail period. These names referred to the narrow break in the rocks through which the Trail passed. Lander road, the main Oregon Trail, and the California Trail are all combined in this area.

Directions: Located between American Falls and Burley off I-86

Must see: Massacre Rocks State Park and the kiosk/overlook at the rest area near the park. Oregon Trail interpretive walk from the rest area to the trail ruts.

Ruts in Massacre Rocks State Park, 1999

Current Observations/Journal Entry:

"Tuesday, June 29. The kiosk has information panels about the Snake River Plain, the Dust and Mosquitoes, the Parting of the Ways, and the City of Rocks. We take in the breathtaking view of the river and canyon walls and venture out on the dusty trail taking us to the 'Oregon Trail Viewing Site.' We are able to photograph ruts along this walk. There is quite a bit of prickly pear cactus in bloom and a complete snake shed wrapped among blades of cheatgrass."