Riding a Horse of a Different Era

The Official California Trail Gold Rush Wagon Train of the 49ers, which aims to re-create the 2,300-mile journey from Missouri to California, sets out on April 4 from St. Charles, Mo., and is to arrive Sept. 2 in Sacramento.

The wagon train, organized by the Morris Carter family, which ran a similar nonprofit event in 1993 along the pioneer Oregon Trail, will mark the 150th anniversary of the California Gold Rush. Along the way, cities will host historic celebrations linked to the trail.

Carter said he plans to have at least six to 10 wagons for the full route, but expects the contingent to swell to 30 wagons or more at times, as did the 1993 Oregon train. Participants can join the wagon train for as little as one day in some areas. Riding a wagon daytime only, including lunch, costs $50 per adult, $25 for children; overnight stays, including all meals, are $125 adults, $75 children. You can also bring your own horse or wagon, for various fees.

Dates of scheduled stops are tentative, depending on weather and other factors. Call (307) 266-4868 or visit https://goldrushwagontrain.com on the Internet.