Trail Basics
What was the Oregon Trail?
A route settlers used to travel west to Oregon, California, and Utah.
What mode of transportation did most travelers use?
Covered Wagons
What natural obstacle was one of the hardest to cross?
Rivers
What was one of the animals that pulled the wagons?
Oxen, mules, or horses
What famous rock formation looks like a Chimney?
Chimney Rock
About how long was the Oregon Trail?
About 2,000 miles
What was a common food settlers ate on the trail?
Hardtack (crackers), bacon, beans, flour, or dried foods
What illness caused the most deaths on the trail?
Cholera
Why were oxen preferred over horses?
They were stronger and needed less food.
What fort was an important supply stop in Wyoming?
Fort Laramie
12 miles
Why were broken wagon wheels a serious problem?
repairs were difficult and could stop the journey
What type of wagon was most commonly used?
Prairie Schooner
What mountain range was one of the final challenges?
Rocky Mountains
What year did large groups begin traveling to the West?
1840
Why did families wake up very early each day?
To travel during cooler hours and make good progress.
True or False: Most settlers died from Native American attacks.
False
What animals did settlers hunt for food along the trail?
Buffalo, deer, or game
Why were landmarks important on the trail?
They helped travelers know they were on the right path.
Name two states the Oregon Trail passed through.
Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Wyoming, Idaho, Oregon
What was one job children often had on the trail?
gathering firewood, herding animals, cooking, or caring for siblings
Why was winter especially dangerous for travelers?
cold weather, snow, lack of food, and blocked mountain passes
What could happen if animals became sick or injured?
The journey could slow or stop completely.
What river was especially dangerous because it was wide and fast?
The Platte River (Snake River)