The Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail traces the route that Brigham Young and his followers took when relocating the headquarters for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’. A group of over 15,000 Mormons traveled west from Nauvoo, Illinois in hopes of ending up at the Great Basin beyond the Rocky Mountains.
On June 14, 1846, thousands of pioneers reached Council Bluffs, then known as Kanesville. Here they created the Grand Encampment which included over 90 cluster settlements within a 40-mile radius of Council Bluffs. They stayed in the area before ultimately continuing their journey west. Follow the trail through Pottawattamie County! There are several significant spots along the way.
West Nishnabotna River Trail & Olde Town Park
Near Macedonia, the Original Mormon Trail Settlement Site marks the location where Mormon pioneers approached the West Nishnabotna River in June 1846. A massive 10,000-pound red granite boulder commemorates the historic crossing.
Today, visitors can continue exploring the area at Olde Town Park. Located along the West Nishnabotna River, the park offers a peaceful setting for picnicking, canoeing, and other outdoor recreation. It’s an easy way to pair local history with time in the outdoors.
Grand Encampment & Mormon Battalion Mustering Grounds
The Grand Encampment was one of the most significant gathering points for Mormon pioneers in the Council Bluffs area. In 1846, thousands of pioneers established settlements throughout the region while preparing to continue their journey west.
The site also marks the mustering grounds of the Mormon Battalion. Just days after arriving in the area, approximately 500 men volunteered for military service following President James K. Polk's call for troops. The battalion went on to march more than 2,000 miles from the Missouri River to California.
Kanesville Memorial
Continue the journey at Kanesville Memorial, which commemorates Council Bluffs' important role in Mormon pioneer history and westward migration.
Kanesville became a major gathering place for pioneers preparing to continue west. A log tabernacle built near the site hosted significant events, including the meeting where Brigham Young was sustained as president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Today, interpretive exhibits, sculptures, walkways, and a visitor center help tell the story of the people and events that shaped Kanesville and its place in the settlement of the American West.
Explore the Western Historic Trails Site
Although the Western Historic Trails Center building is permanently closed, the surrounding outdoor site remains a unique place to explore Council Bluffs' connection to westward migration.
Located along the Missouri River, the property features an extensive trail network and more than 200 metal sculptures by artist Timothy Woodman. The sculptures depict the stories of the Lewis and Clark, Mormon, Oregon, California, and Pioneer Trails, creating an outdoor experience that brings the region's history to life.
Walk or bike the trails, take in the prairie landscape, and discover the sculptures along the way. It's a great addition to a day exploring Council Bluffs' historic connection to the American West.
Continue Exploring Council Bluffs' History
The Mormon Pioneer Trail is just one part of Council Bluffs' rich connection to westward expansion. Explore additional historic sites, trails, museums, monuments, and landmarks throughout the community and Pottawattamie County.
Trace the trail, discover the stories, and experience the places that helped shape the history of the American West. Start planning your historic adventure through Council Bluffs and Pottawattamie County today!
