Discover one of Marysville’s true hidden gems—a place where history comes alive and the spirit of exploration still lingers. At this unique site, you’ll find a rare convergence: eight historic trails once crossed through Marshall County, shaping the movement westward and leaving a lasting legacy on the American story. These trails include the Oregon Trail, Overland Trail, Pony Express route, Military Trail, Mormon Trail, Otoe-Missouria Trail, St. Joseph-California Trail and Pike’s Peak-California Trail.
Interpretive signs and a detailed map bring each route to life, explaining the challenges, triumphs and significance of the travelers who passed through this region. Standing here, you can imagine the wagons, riders and pioneers who helped shape the nation’s destiny.
One of the site’s most striking features is a replica of the rope ferry once used to cross the Big Blue River. In the days before bridges, a thick rope stretched across the river, guiding the ferry back and forth on a pulley system. By turning a large wheel, travelers could shift the ferry into or away from the current, letting the river’s force help push them safely to the other side. This innovative design was a lifeline for thousands of people moving westward—and a reminder of the ingenuity and determination that defined the era.
Tucked into the landscape yet rich with history, this hidden corner of Marysville offers visitors a powerful glimpse into the journeys that built a nation. It’s not just a site to visit—it’s a story to experience.
