From June 25-28, over 340 teenagers from the Afton Wyoming Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, along with 120 supportive adults, participated in a transformative youth camp. This event reenacted the historical handcart journey, honoring the hardships faced by the Willie and Martin Handcart Companies in 1856.
Participants dressed in pioneer attire to fully immerse themselves in the experience, organized into four separate companies for a timed entry along a six-mile trail leading to Martin’s Cove. This site is significant as a refuge during a severe winter storm when many members of the Martin Handcart Company sought shelter, enduring starvation and exposure on their way to the Salt Lake Valley.
Staci Horsley, who organized and directed the trek, remarked:
“It was a blessing to be a part of organizing this special event. I was able to see the very best in kids and leaders and observed so many people offering their talents and time to make this wonderful for all who were involved.”
On the first day, the group visited the Martin’s Cove: Mormon Trail Site Visitor’s Center near Casper, learning about the historical significance of the Willie and Martin Handcart Companies. The second day involved pulling hand carts through rocky, sandy, and hilly terrain, including river crossings, as participants reflected on the trials faced by their predecessors. Multiple reflection points allowed youth and leaders to honor those who came before them, deepening their understanding of sacrifice and faith.
Amber and Zack Hale, who served as Ma and Pa leaders, shared their thoughts on the experience:
“Having the opportunity to be a Ma and Pa on Trek was truly an amazing and unique experience. As any adult who had the opportunity to be a Ma and Pa will say, “my family was the best,” and we all honestly believe that. Which I think is a testament to the youth in this valley. It was easy to love these kids immediately, even though we hadn’t known them before the first day of the Trek, and it was a privilege to share this experience with them. To get a small taste of the sacrifices the early pioneers made in this type of “ family setting “ was humbling and inspiring. Would do it again in a heartbeat!”
Charles Hale, a youth participant, expressed:
“I had lots of fun! The food was scrumptious, and we walked A LOT, but it was fun to pretend to be a pioneer and get to know new people. I didn’t know anyone in my trek family! But we had lots of fun together.”
In addition to the handcart experience, participants engaged in pioneer games, shared meals, and built friendships at a large campsite. The third day featured a separate six-mile trail traversing the historic sixth crossing of the Sweetwater River, where rescuers from the Salt Lake Valley met the Willie Handcart Company to assist them. This crossing is crucial as it marked a vital point in the rescue efforts for those suffering on the plains.
Ehryn Thomson added:
“Kyle and I were privileged to be a Ma and Pa! The closeness we had with our Trek family was remarkable, even though we were only with them for a few days. We laughed, cried, worked, crossed rivers, and learned about the sacrifice of the pioneers together! Some of our trek kids even had pioneer ancestors who walked the hallowed ground we walked on! It was such a meaningful experience. These teenagers are amazing!”
On Saturday morning, the youth gathered at Rock Creek Hollow to learn about the struggles and faith of the Willie and Martin Handcart Companies. Special guest Robert Lorimer, a former Stake President who led a “second rescue” in the 1990s, shared insights into the experiences of early pioneers and the importance of documenting their stories.
Jeff England, First Counselor in the Afton Stake Presidency, emphasized the significance of such trek experiences:
“Trek experiences provide young adults the chance to learn about the faith and sacrifices of early members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Our goal was to create an environment where the spirit of the Lord could be felt meaningfully.”
The youth were actively involved in planning their trek experience, which began over a year ago. Each month, they participated in activities designed to prepare them for trekking at Martin’s Cove, making the experience more meaningful.
Scott Milne, Stake President of the Afton Wyoming Stake, noted:
“We wanted to provide our youth an opportunity to have a spiritual experience that would draw them closer to their Savior by helping them better understand and appreciate the sacrifices made by early pioneers who gave everything because of their love and commitment to the Lord. It was a great experience and really brought to light the harsh conditions they endured and the sacrifices made on behalf of their beliefs and the cost of true discipleship.”
Youth participant Emily Call reflected:
“While on Trek, I learned that in a way, I am on my own handcart journey, and when I experience my own challenges in life, I can remember the example of the handcart pioneers and turn to my Savior for strength and support.”
