The Oregon-California Trails Association is an interdisciplinary organization based at Independence, Missouri, United States.
Three major historical trails crossed America's western territories as wagon train routes to Santa Fe, Oregon, and California.
It was unique in American History due to its overland commerce routes rather than seafaring transportation.
The 2,000-mile (3,200 km) Oregon Trail became more heavily traveled in 1843 by settlers wanting to establish new homes in the northwest.
Other pioneers forked off on the equally long and grueling California Trail to seek their fortunes in the gold fields.