CHEYENNE, Wyo. – May 21, 2026 – In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary in Wyoming, Wyoming State Parks’ Virtual Oregon Trail Challenge invites participants to discover what it was like to walk the Oregon Trail from anywhere in the world. This Wyoming State Parks initiative, supported in part by a grant from the Governor’s Semiquincentennial Task Force, encourages participants to stay active while virtually exploring one of Wyoming’s most iconic historic routes. 

Through September 30, 2026, 1,000 individuals or groups will have the opportunity to virtually hike a portion of the Oregon Trail in Wyoming using the Pacer app and receive a prize after completing the hike. Virtually hike from Fort Laramie to Independence Rock for 154 miles or from South Pass to Fort Bridger for 196 miles.

The Pacer app allows you to record how far you have walked by connecting to Apple Health, Apple Watch, Google Fit, Samsung Health, Fitbit, or Garmin, or by manually entering steps. There is also a conversion chart so that individuals who wish to bike or engage in other activities can determine the number of steps taken during those activities.

You will see your progress in real time using Google Maps in the app. Unlock information about an important destination along the trail. For example, when you have walked as far as pioneers would have walked to get from Fort Laramie to the Oregon Trail Ruts, you will unlock pictures and information about the Ruts. Historic photos are courtesy of the Wyoming State Archives, helping bring the journey to life. 

Download the Pacer app today, use Org Code DJ110052, and select the East Wyoming or West Wyoming side challenge. For detailed information on how to register, please visit Bit.ly/OregonTrailWY

Figure 1: Virtual Oregon Trail Challenge graphic. 

Contact: Linley Palazzolo, (307) 577-5150; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.