Pioneer Trek: everything you need to know

Everything you need to know about Pioneer Trek.

Table of Contents

Every year around this time all the blog posts I have about Pioneer Trek start trending on my blog. I’m not surprised! Even though this historical reenactment is something that typically doesn’t happen until summer, it takes a lot of planning! Today I’ve decided to compile all my blog posts on the subject in one spot to make it easier for you to learn everything you need to know about going on a Pioneer Trek reenactment!

All the best Pioneer Trek tips.

all the Pioneer Trek blog posts you need

I never had the opportunity to go on Pioneer Trek when I was growing up. However, going as an adult was incredible. If you ever have the chance to go as a Ma or Pa you should definitely go. Or, if your child is on the fence about attending, highly encourage them! It can be a bit overwhelming to prepare for your Trek experience though so I hope these tips and blog posts help you!

all the tips & ticks you need to know

Everything you need to know–from how to prepare physically to how to prepare spiritually–can be found in this blog post. I also share all about how to stay clean while after a long day of hiking, and how to always be prepared for a quick mending job on the trail.

how to save money on Pioneer Trek clothing

“Authentic” clothing is one of the most fun aspects of Trek, but it can also be expensive. In this post I’m sharing the ways I saved money on our outfits. I’m also talking about how I made a few pieces–even with my minimal sewing skills.

Family handcarts that we decorated with our family name.

necessities to bring

5 gallon buckets

It’s typical on for each person to bring a five gallon bucket on Trek reenactments. Not only is it your suitcase for the trip, but also your seat out in the wilderness. I’m sharing some tips on how to personalize your bucket and make it a more comfortable place to rest.

first aid kits

Not only do you have to be prepared for yourself while you’re on Trek, you also need to be prepared for your “family”. Just like in real life! In this post I’m sharing the simple items I took in our personal first aid kit. I’m also showing off the handy way I kept it all contained.

Pioneer Trek handouts.

fun things to bring

hand stamped handouts

You will likely need to plan some devotionals for your family unit. Or maybe you just want to make something for you “kids” on Trek. In this post I’m sharing how to make simple and inexpensive metal stamped bracelets that are the perfect handout.

Pioneer journals

Having a spot to write down your thoughts and impressions while on Trek is such a great idea. An experience as unique as this one will definitely be one you want to remember. And it will be one you want your “family” to remember as well!

Pushing our handcart on the trail.

what is Pioneer Trek?

A Pioneer Trek is a reenactment of the journey made by early members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It reenacts their travel from the Midwest to Utah in the mid-19th century. It’s a way for members of our church to honor the sacrifices of our pioneer ancestors. Trek typically takes place over the course of several days and participants dress in clothing reminiscent of the pioneers of the 1800s. Many Trek reenactments will incorporate handcarts. Handcarts were used by the original pioneers to carry their belongings across the plains.

During the trek, participants learn about real historical figures, or sometimes their own Pioneer ancestors. Part of the expereince is to simulate some of the trials they went through, such as difficult and steep paths or inclement weather. Devotional activities are also common, such as scripture study and singing hymns. These activities help us strengthen faith and gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by the early Pioneers.

Have you ever been on a Pioneer Trek reenactment?

Find more Pioneer Trek tips on Pinterest!

Everything you need to know about Pioneer Trek.