Shilpgram | Udaipur

The Guernsey Ruts are a series of wagon ruts carved into sandstone formations in Guernsey, Wyoming.

Visual Characteristics

The ruts are linear depressions in the sandstone, varying in depth from a few centimeters to over a meter. The sandstone exhibits a light brown to reddish-brown coloration. The formations are exposed to the elements, with no significant vegetation growth directly within the rut channels.

Location & Access Logistics

The Guernsey Ruts are located approximately 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) west of the town of Guernsey, Wyoming. Access is via State Highway 26. Turn north onto Guernsey Ruts Road, a gravel road, which leads to a designated parking area. The ruts are a short walk from the parking lot. No public transport services this specific location.

Historical & Ecological Origin

These ruts were created by the wheels of emigrant wagons traveling the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails during the mid-19th century. The sandstone is part of the Casper Formation, deposited during the Pennsylvanian period.

Key Highlights & Activities

Observation of the preserved wagon ruts. Walking along the trail adjacent to the ruts. Photography of the geological formations and historical markings.

Infrastructure & Amenities

A small gravel parking area is available. No restrooms, shade structures, or food vendors are present at the site. Cell phone signal is generally weak to non-existent.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon provides optimal lighting conditions for highlighting the rut contours. The best months for visiting are typically May through October, avoiding winter snow and ice. No tide considerations apply.

Facts & Legends

The depth and width of the ruts indicate the heavy loads carried by the wagons and the soft nature of the sandstone at the time of passage. Some ruts are so deep they required wagons to be partially disassembled to extract them.

Nearby Landmarks

• Fort Guernsey State Historic Site (0.8km East)
• Guernsey State Park (2.5km Southeast)
• Warm Springs Recreation Area (4.0km Southwest)