Wyoming

‘The trail whispers’: Church historian joins Latter-day Saint youth on newly reopened 29-mile Wyoming pioneer trail

Published

8 months ago

July 18, 2025

‘The trail whispers’: Church historian joins Latter-day Saint youth on newly reopened 29-mile Wyoming pioneer trail

18 July 2025, 8:30 a.m. MDT

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has reopened a handcart trail for youth at its Wyoming Mormon Trail Historic Sites, allowing participants to pull handcarts along a 29-mile linear route that follows the original pioneer trail from Sixth Crossing over Rocky Ridge to Rock Creek Hollow.

After being halted due to the global pandemic and other logistical complications, this trail is available for the first time in a decade, said Elder Kyle S. McKay, a General Authority Seventy who serves as Church historian and recorder and executive director of the Church History Department.

Elder Kyle S. McKay, a General Authority Seventy who serves as the Church historian and recorder, speaks to youth during a pioneer trek at the Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites in July 2025. | Screenshot from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Elder McKay noted that walking these Wyoming trails enables members to connect with their ancestors and Church history, gaining insight into the challenges faced by handcart pioneers.

“This trail whispers,” he said. “There are those who have gone on before, and we listen to their stories, and we read their stories, and their testimony still reverberates in these sagebrush-covered hills.”

Elder Kyle S. McKay, a General Authority Seventy who serves as the Church Historian and Recorder, and his wife, Sister Jennifer McKay, walk with youth on a pioneer trek at the Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites in July 2025. — Elder Kyle S. McKay, a General Authority Seventy who serves as the Church historian and recorder, and his wife, Sister Jennifer McKay, walk with youth on a pioneer trek at the Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites in July 2025. | Screenshot from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Elder McKay and his wife, Sister Jennifer S. McKay, accompanied youth and leaders of the Hooper Utah Pioneer Trail Stake in walking the extended trail July 8-9.

“I know the potential that this place has for providing an amazing experience,” Elder McKay said. “And so when we were finally able to open the trail back up, I wanted to be here.”

A map shows the approximate locations of Sixth Crossing, Rocky Ridge and Rock Creek Hollow, historic locations that are part of the Church's Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites. — A map shows the approximate locations of Sixth Crossing, Rocky Ridge and Rock Creek Hollow, historic locations that are part of the Church’s Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites near Lander, Wyoming. | Church News graphic

What drove them

Sixth Crossing is where the Willie Handcart Company encountered the first rescue wagons at the Sweetwater River amid early winter conditions in 1856.

A short time later, the Willie company sheltered at Rock Creek Hollow after the difficult ascent of Rocky Ridge — one of the highest points of altitude (7,300 feet) along the Oregon, Mormon and California trails — during a severe snowstorm.

Latter-day Saint youth from the Hooper Utah Pioneer Trail Stake climb the trail to Rocky Ridge during a pioneer trek at the Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites in July 2025. | Screenshot from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Sister McKay said walking the trail helps one better understand the pioneers’ faith and perspective.

“What drove the people to do what they did was their love for God and their willingness to follow a prophet, and that is what drives us. We love our Heavenly Father. We want to let God prevail,” she said. “You can feel and you can see God at work in the lives of His children.”

Youth from the Hooper Utah Pioneer Trail Stake stand at a monument as part of a pioneer trek at the Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites in July 2025. | Screenshot from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

The trek experience

Robert Goates, site president of the Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites, encouraged stakes, wards and branches to bring their young women and men to have this “unique experience.”

“They can walk where their ancestors walked. They can see the landscape that they saw in the conditions in which they saw and experienced it,” Goates said. “This is sacred ground, but it becomes sacred for very personal reasons to those youth that feel the Spirit here, and feel a deeper relationship with their Savior.”

Latter-day Saint youth participate in a pioneer dancing activity as part of a handcart trek near Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites in July 2025. | Screenshot from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Blake Hansen, a youth participant, said, “You can feel the spirit when you’re walking along these trails.”

Fellow trekker Lydia Burrows said: “I have a pioneer ancestor that came across in the Willie Handcart Company, and it’s been really cool to walk in his footsteps and to see and be in the places that he was. It makes me feel so much more connected and to realize that they went through really hard things. But through Jesus Christ, they made it.”

Added Brayden Calvin, “Trek has helped me draw closer to Christ by wanting to help others. I’ve been able to help with other people. So, like serving others, and then also just being able to turn to Him when things get hard.”

Latter-day Saint youth from the Hooper Utah Pioneer Trail Stake participate in a pioneer trek at the Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites in July 2025. | Screenshot from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

How to make a trek reservation

Members are welcomed and encouraged to have the trek experience at the Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites, said Benjamin Pykles, director of the Church History Department’s Historic Sites Division.

“You are walking where they walked and having as authentic an experience as you can get,” he said. “Trekking is still happening, and you have great experiences. We have this new route. It’s arduous, but it’s exciting.”

Handcart trek reservations for 2026 open in September. Information for how to request a trek reservation, along with itinerary options, planning resources, frequently asked questions and more are available at ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Standing center, Elder Kyle S. McKay, a General Authority Seventy who serves as the Church historian and recorder, speaks to youth during a pioneer trek at the Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites in July 2025. | Screenshot from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Elder Kyle S. McKay, a General Authority Seventy who serves as the Church historian and recorder, speaks to youth during a pioneer trek at the Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites in July 2025. | Screenshot from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

A view of the Sweetwater River near the Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites in July 2025. | Screenshot from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Elder Charles Sypher and Sister Karen Sypher, senior missionaries serving at the Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites, speak to youth in July 2025. | Screenshot from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Right, Elder Kyle S. McKay, a General Authority Seventy who serves as the Church historian and recorder, interacts with youth on a pioneer trek at the Wyoming Mormon Trail Sites in July 2025. | Screenshot from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

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Wyoming

Wyoming Announces 2026 Football Schedule – SweetwaterNOW

Published

12 hours ago

March 10, 2026

Press Room

Wyoming Announces 2026 Football Schedule

Samuel “Tote” Harris. Photo from gowyo.com

LARAMIE — The University of Wyoming and the Mountain West Conference announced the Cowboys’ 2026 football schedule Monday, a slate that opens with the Border War and concludes with back-to-back home games in Laramie.

Wyoming opens the season Sept. 5 on the road against Colorado State in the 118th edition of the Border War. The Cowboys then host Northern Colorado on Sept. 12 in the home opener before traveling to Central Michigan on Sept. 19.

The Cowboys begin Mountain West play Sept. 26 at home against Hawaii in a matchup for the Paniolo Trophy. Wyoming then faces back-to-back road games at North Dakota State on Oct. 3 and San Jose State on Oct. 10.

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Wyoming returns to War Memorial Stadium on Oct. 17 to host conference newcomer Northern Illinois before facing Air Force at home on Oct. 24. The Cowboys will have an open week on Oct. 31.

The Cowboys open November with road games at UNLV on Nov. 7 and at UTEP on Nov. 14, marking Wyoming’s first meeting with the Miners as members of the Mountain West. Wyoming closes conference play by hosting New Mexico on Nov. 21 and wraps up the regular season with a nonconference game against UConn on Nov. 28 in Laramie.

Each Mountain West team will play four home and four road conference games during the 13-week season, which will conclude with the Mountain West Football Championship Game featuring the two teams with the highest conference winning percentages. The championship game date will be announced later.

With the conference schedule set, Mountain West television partners CBS Sports, FOX Sports, and The CW will begin selecting broadcast games, which could include moving some contests to non-Saturday dates. Network assignments and kickoff times will be announced at a later date.

Season ticket renewals for the 2026 Wyoming football season are now available. Fans can renew their tickets online by visiting gowyo.com/tickets and logging into their account.

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Wyoming

Two Champions Crowned as Wyoming Prep Girls Basketball Season Enters Final Week

Published

24 hours ago

March 9, 2026

Press Room

Two Champions Crowned as Wyoming Prep Girls Basketball Season Enters Final Week

The 2026 Wyoming prep girls’ basketball season is nearly done. Two state champions were crowned in Classes 1A and 2A last Saturday. Southeast won the 1A title for the third consecutive season, and Sundance won the 2A title for the first time in eight years. Class 3A and 4A held their regional tournaments, which qualified teams for the state tournament later this week in Casper.

WYOPREPS WEEK 12 GIRLS BASKETBALL STANDINGS 2026

These are the girls’ basketball team records for all games played through March 7, 2026. For all but 16 teams, this is the final record of the season. Those squads will play in the 3A-4A state tournament starting on Thursday in Casper.

1A Northwest: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Burlington 24-5, 8-0

Riverside 14-10, 6-2

Dubois 11-10, 4-4

St. Stephens 3-16, 1-7

Meeteetse 1-20, 1-7

1A Southwest: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Cokeville 23-4, 10-0

Little Snake River 23-4, 8-2

Farson-Eden 16-12, 5-5

Saratoga 13-11, 5-5

Ft. Washakie 8-13, 2-8

Encampment 3-19, 0-10

1A Northeast: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Upton 16-7, 10-0

Kaycee 13-12, 7-3

Hulett 12-13, 7-3

Arvada-Clearmont 9-12, 4-6

Casper Christian 4-13, 2-8

Midwest 1-16, 0-10

1A Southeast: (Overall Record, followed by Reg. Season Points)

Southeast 24-5, 40 points

Lingle-Ft. Laramie 17-11, 31 points

Lusk 15-13, 26 points

H.E.M. 13-11, 24 points

Rock River 6-14, 12 points

Guernsey-Sunrise 2-18, 4 points

2A Northwest: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Thermopolis 16-13, 5-1

Greybull 16-15, 4-2

Rocky Mountain 9-17, 2-4

Shoshoni 11-18, 1-5

2A Southwest: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Wyoming Indian 23-7, 6-0

Big Piney 8-16, 4-2

Kemmerer 2-21, 1-5

Wind River 2-23, 1-5

2A East: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Sundance 23-4, 5-0

Big Horn 21-6, 4-1

Tongue River 18-11, 3-2

Pine Bluffs 17-12, 2-3

Moorcroft 7-18, 1-4

Wright 3-23, 0-5

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3A West: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Cody 24-0, 10-0

Lander 21-4, 9-1

Pinedale 20-5, 7-3

Powell 16-9, 6-4

Lovell 16-10, 4-6

Worland 9-16, 2-8

Lyman 10-11, 2-8

Mountain View 4-19, 0-10

3A East: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Wheatland 22-4, 10-0

Buffalo 13-11, 8-2

Douglas 14-11, 6-4

Burns 16-13, 5-5

Torrington 10-11, 5-5

Glenrock 12-13, 3-7

Newcastle 1-22, 1-9

Rawlins 2-21, 0-10

4A Northwest: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Green River 23-2, 6-0

Natrona County 9-16, 4-2

Kelly Walsh 8-15, 2-4

Rock Springs 5-20, 0-6

4A Southwest: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Star Valley 16-7, 5-1

Evanston 16-10, 5-1

Riverton 7-19, 1-5

Jackson 3-19, 1-5

4A East: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Cheyenne East 21-3, 11-1

Cheyenne Central 16-9, 10-2

Sheridan 14-10, 7-5

Thunder Basin 14-10, 6-6

Laramie 12-11, 6-6

Campbell County 1-19, 1-10

Cheyenne South 1-21, 0-11

*The second Campbell County-Cheyenne South girls’ game was canceled.

Wyoming 3A Boys Swimming & Diving State Championships 2026

Photos from the 3A Boys State Swim Meet

Gallery Credit: Courtesy: Marcello Monterastelli Photography & Jared Newland, WHSAA

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Wyoming

Why This Wyoming Town Deserves More Attention

Published

1 day ago

March 9, 2026

Press Room

Why This Wyoming Town Deserves More Attention

A pristine trail town tucked into the breathtaking beauty of western Wyoming, Dubois puts the ‘wild’ in the Wild West. Just 55 miles from Yellowstone National Park and located in the Wind River, Owl Creek, and Absaroka mountain ranges, the town is a welcoming alpine community with stunning views from every street. From enjoying the fresh powder on the winter slopes to hiking, biking, or riding through the wildflower-covered peaks in the summer, Dubois is a year-round destination that offers adventure in every season. In addition to its serene location, Dubois is a vibrant town with lots on the menu from fine dining to lively western-style saloons.

The History of Dubois

Old West piano player on the front port of historic saloon in Dubois, Wyoming. Image credit Sandra Foyt via Shutterstock

The Wind River Valley remained sparsely populated until the late 1800s, when pioneering homesteaders established the first settlements, initiating a small yet lively community. While fur traders, explorers, and some Native American tribes were familiar with the area, it was the arrival of homesteaders that helped shape its identity. This led to the emergence of a town, supported by the expansion of cattle and sheep ranching.

Dubois was officially incorporated in 1914 and grew over the years, benefiting from its logging, farming, and tourism sectors. Today, with a population of 778 as of the 2022 census, Dubois remains true to its Western heritage, offering visitors an authentic cowboy experience.

Things to Do in Dubois

CM Ranch in Dubois, Wyoming. Image credit Dana Lane via Flickr.com

Get that cowboy experience at one of the oldest guest ranches in the country, the CM Ranch which opened in 1927. It doesn’t matter whether you are an experienced rider, or never been on a horse, the experienced staff at this busy dude ranch will show you the ropes. Guests can choose their own adventure, from riding trails through desert badlands and mountain highlands to fly fishing in the backcountry.

Sunset on the Painted Hills Near Dubois, Wyoming.

Dubois is located in mountain country, possibly the only place where you can observe three distinct types of mountains: those formed by glaciers, volcano-created peaks, and ranges caused by shifting underground plates. It is a haven and playground for nature lovers. If you prefer walking over riding, numerous local guides are available to help you explore the trails and enjoy the best vistas. For those who prefer to go alone, the Bonneville Pass Trail offers a scenic climb through valley meadows, while the Five Pockets Trail provides spectacular views of Horse Creek with the Absaroka Mountains as a backdrop.

Look out for ancient carvings while you are exploring; Wyoming is home to stunning examples of rock art. In the Wind River Range, you will find the Torrey Lake Petroglyph District, which includes around 175 well-preserved petroglyphs. For more information on where to see the best pictograms or find accessible trails, speak to the staff at the Dubois Museum. This specialty museum traces the geology of the area, its early inhabitants, and its history of homesteading. They also offer custom guided tours of petroglyphs, native sheep trap and buffalo drive sites, and more.

Wind River in the Summer Near Dubois Wyoming. — Wind River in the summer Near Dubois Wyoming.

Dubois is a favorite spot for anglers, featuring pristine lakes, streams, and rivers teeming with fish like rainbow trout, brook trout, and cutthroat trout. Try casting your line at Torrey Creek. The waters aren’t just for fishing; you can also enjoy kayaking or canoeing, or relax with a float trip guided by Wind River Float Trips.

In winter, the country is even more beautiful, and there are still lots of ways to enjoy it. Go ice-fishing, take a dog-sled ride through the snowy wonderland, or try cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Downtown Dubois

Exterior of Outlaw Saloon with view of street and mountains in Dubois, Wyoming. — The exterior of Outlaw Saloon in Dubois, Wyoming. Image credit Sandra Foyt via Shutterstock

Many Wild West legends have strolled through Dubois, including the infamous outlaw Butch Cassidy. While things may have changed over time, the town still radiates quirky character and Western charm. After a day outdoors, grab a bite at the Rustic Pine Tavern, open since 1919, or visit the Outlaw Bar and Saloon. Once called the Branding Iron Inn, the Outlaw Bar has remained a beloved Dubois gathering spot for generations.

In the summer months, the town hosts the Dubois Friday Night Rodeo, which runs through June, July, and August. The family-friendly event features Mutton Bustin, Calf Riding, Mini Bull Riding, Pee Wee Barrel Racing, and more.

What Makes Dubois Different

Main street in the western town of Dubois Wyoming. — The main street in the western town of Dubois, Wyoming. Image credit Sandra Foyt via Shutterstock

Dubois remains a timeless town nestled amid Wyoming’s towering mountain ranges. This cowboy haven has preserved its natural beauty and charm for centuries, attracting explorers, pioneers, hunters, and adventurers. Visitors can saddle up at a dude ranch, scale mountain peaks, fish or float on glacial rivers, and unwind at the local rodeo—offering an ideal setting for unforgettable experiences and a break from everyday life.

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