By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer. (May 20, 2025)
PLACERVILLE, Calif. — The rhythmic clop of hooves and the creak of wooden wagons will once again echo through the Sierra as the 76th annual Highway 50 Wagon Train makes its historic journey across El Dorado County from May 31 to June 7.
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Founded in 1949 as a promotional event, the Wagon Train has evolved into a cherished tradition, retracing the Gold Rush trail from Round Hill, Nevada to Placerville, California. Participants don authentic period dress, sleep under the stars, and navigate the rugged trail at a steady 3.5 mph, evoking a bygone era.
“It’s the draw of living that pioneer life, coming over the sense of excitement, of a reunion of seeing people you haven’t seen for a year,”
said Ron Harris, 70, a local photographer who has documented the ride for decades.
“You can see the horses when they’re hitched up — the people, how they’re smiling. They’re enjoying themselves.”
The weeklong event includes stops at Amaker Ranch, Echo Summit, Kyburz, Fresh Pond, and Pollock Pines, culminating in a celebratory ride down Placerville’s Main Street on Saturday, June 7. A community gathering will take place the day before at the Pollock Pines Community Center, featuring music, food, and family-friendly festivities.
But beneath the festive spirit lies a note of concern for the future.
“We’re all getting older and we need some young blood and monetary support,”
said Carol Spreckelsen Foster, a longtime member of the Highway 50 Association. Foster said the event skipped only one year—2020—due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, she’s urging younger generations to get involved before the living tradition fades away.
Foster emphasized that the experience offers hands-on learning that technology can’t replicate.
“Now that I’m back into it, I’m trying to get more people into it. The younger generation stares at their phone and that’s their life—this is reality,” she said. “We do it just like they did in the old days. It makes it feel real. It is not a Disney ride.”
Steve Downer, who has served as the association’s president for more than a decade, noted that even familiar terrain can surprise riders.
“You see so much more in detail,” he said. “It seems like every year you spot something you didn’t see the year before.”
The event includes a layover and appreciation day on Thursday, June 5, in Fresh Pond, with a potluck dinner, raffles, and association awards. Riders are responsible for their own supplies and meals for part of the journey, though hot meals are provided on several days.
Key Dates and Stops:
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May 31: Registration and Dinner at Round Hill Village, NV
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June 1–6: Travel across Meyers, Echo Summit, Kyburz, Fresh Pond, and Pollock Pines
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June 7: Final ride into Placerville and end-of-trail celebration
According to Harris, nature adds unpredictability and authenticity to the ride.
“It’s annoying sometimes when it’s raining or snowing in a wagon,” he said. “You’ve got to figure the pioneers did that back in the days.”
As the train inches west, escorted by local authorities and greeted by onlookers, it becomes more than just a moving tribute — it’s history in action.
“Once the bug bites you, it never goes away,” Harris said.
For those interested in joining or supporting the event, more information can be found through the Highway 50 Association website.
