Roadside Attraction Sand Springs Pony Express Station
Fallon
Overview
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Wed 50 | 39 |
Thu 66 | 42 |
Fri 65 | 42 |
Sat 55 | 43 |
Sun 49 | 34 |
| View Full Weather Details | ||||
|
Wed 50 | 39 |
Thu 66 | 42 |
Fri 65 | 42 |
Sat 55 | 43 |
Sun 49 | 34 |
| View Full Weather Details | ||||
Pony Express Station
""Men Wanted" The undersigned wishes to hire ten or a dozen men, familiar with the management of horses, as hostlers, or riders on the Overland Express Route via Salt Lake City. Wages $50 per month and found." - Ad in Sacramento Union, March 19, 1860.
Starting in April 1860, and running until October 1861, the Pony Express changed history and the United States. The route, an incredible 1800 miles from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Sacramento, California, took 10 days to traverse. The riders would travel on horseback for 75-100 miles, changing horses every 10-15 miles. To accomplish such a feat, the Pony Express had to establish over 150 stations along the path across the country.
Once the telegraph came into existence, the Pony Express had a quick demise because it was no longer necessary to deliver messages urgently via mail. Though short-lived and never profitable, the Pony Express is a legendary example of American problem-solving and innovation.
The Sand Springs Pony Express station, near Sand Mountain, is an excellent roadside attraction to get a glimpse into the Pony Express history. Not much remains, other than partial walls and an informational sign, however, the history and views of the area make this a worthwhile stop.
Pony Express Info Plaque
Getting There
From Fallon, NV, head east on US-50. About 25 miles from Fallon is Sand Mountain Recreation Area on the north side of the road. Take the signed road toward Sand Mountain. At 0.8 miles from US-50, a good dirt road goes off on the left and is signed for the Pony Express Station. The parking area 0.5 miles at the end of the dirt road.
Sand Mountain in the distance
Route
From the parking area, a short trail leads to the old Pony Express quarters.
The short nature trail that meanders around past the springs is fascinating, especially when you consider people lived here full-time, tending horses, braving the heat and cold, and trying to subsist on the meager and poor quality water in the area.
Photos
Maps
| Sand Mountain |
11S 379167mE 4350929mN N39° 17' 58" W118° 24' 05" |
| Pony Express Trailhead |
11S 377928mE 4349958mN N39° 17' 25" W118° 24' 56" |
| Pony Express Station |
11S 377706mE 4350035mN N39° 17' 28" W118° 25' 05" |