Between 1841 and 1869 over 250,000 people sold their belongings, packed up wagons, and set out over-land for California.

Learn the stories of the pioneers who endured the 2,000-mile trek; some seeking land, some gold, others seeking adventure, and some for reasons we may never know. Enjoy Native American programs, visit with trail reenactors, and much more. Our young visitors will enjoy Jr. Ranger activities throughout the camp.

California Trail Days is a pioneer reenactment event for the whole family!

The event is free to attend and is full of fun and educational activities for all ages. Pan for gold, take a ride in a horse-drawn covered wagon, interact with
Native and Pioneer Camps, and more!

Schedule of Events

10 am - Trail Days opens!

All day activities

Interactive Pioneer and Native American Camps
Gold Panning
Wagon Rides
Kids' Activity Room
Quilt Making
Basket Weaving
Archery and Axe Throwing
Shoshone Tacos
10:30 am - Anatomy of a Wagon

Learn all about the history and construction of covered wagons. Presentation by Frank Tortorich.
11:30 am - What Women Wore

Get a lesson in 1840s fashion from Mary Tortorich.
1 pm - Nevada Discovery Ride

Few people have seen the Silver State like the Nevada Discovery Ride team. Since 2013, Samantha, along with her horses Sage & Fremont, and dog Juniper, have logged tens of thousands of miles exploring Nevada by foot, hoof, and paw. Join "Sagebrush Sam" for a special presentation on her Nevada Adventures. You can also visit with Sam in our Pioneer Camp throughout the event.

Event ends at 4pm Saturday and 3 pm on Sunday.

Date:
June 7-8, 2025

Hours:
June 7, 2025 from 10:00am to 4:00pm
June 8, 2025 from 10:00am to 3:00pm

Location:
California Trail Center, 1 Interpretive Center Way
Elko, NV 89801

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