With the sun we were in motion and a 8 a.m. we started and at 2 p.m. we succeeded in crossing the mountain with grater [greater] facility and less labor than expected. The greatest depth of snow did not exceed more than a foot if we found the ascent gradual the decent was certainly the reverse for in some parts so very steep it was with difficulty the Horses were prevented from falling with their loads. All however reached this [the north] side in safety . . . Following a small Stream for three miles I encamped. All here looks like summer. grass green and four inches in length and from the size of the wood, the Oak here being nearly double in size of any I have seen this season induces me to suppose the Climate is milder. Altho I ascended a high hill I could not discover the Main Stream and concluded it is far distant. Shortly after we were encamped an Indian came boldly to my Tent. And presented me with two fresh salmon . . .

– Peter Skene Ogden, February 9, 1827, upper Bear Creek valley

1855 Survey Map of the Emigrant Trail.

The notation on the bottom marks the site of the Cole's house, located on Cottonwood Creek, that would later become the first stage stop across the California border. The two top notations mark where the emigrant trail crosses the two forks of the East Fork Cottonwood Creek.

Cole's Station