This monument was erected by the Nevada Historical Society and is maintained by the Trails West historical organization. A bit father west and a sign indicated that Tragedy Spring was 12 miles to the west and Caples Lake four miles to the east. The group paused for lunch under a triangular sign atop a rocky crest, part of the 1945 trail marking. Back at the bottom of Lift 4, Watson explained that a Comprehensive Management Plan for the California and Pony Express trails has been completed and can be found in county libraries in California and Nevada. An updated Mormon Pioneer and Oregon Trail will also be available soon.
Public comment is sought.
But not too many, please. Above, the hike begins at the base of Kirkwood's Chair 4. Wagons rolled up this meadow to the narrow wagon trail. The California trail decal will be added next year to aluminum triangles on the trees. Below,wildflowers carpet the trail even in late summer as the snowfields continue to melt.