Retracing Snowshoe Thompson’s Footsteps
In March 2024, a team of seasoned athletes will retrace the 100-mile route John “Snowshoe” Thompson took on his first winter mail delivery in 1856. Following clues from historical records and Thompson’s known navigation style, they’ll trek and ski the rugged Sierra Nevada terrain between Placerville, CA and Genoa, NV. Through live tracking, photos, and stories, the public can follow their journey and learn about Thompson’s remarkable life and legacy. Join the Facebook group for updates and discussions!
Puzzle of the Pioneer’s Path
Reconstructing Thompson’s exact route is a challenge. He left no maps, relying solely on terrain and sky navigation. The team meticulously researched historical sources and explored the landscape to piece together the most likely path, incorporating remnants of old trails like the Johnson Cutoff. Their trek honors Thompson’s daring spirit and offers a glimpse into his legendary winter crossings.
Details of the Expedition
To honor John “Snowshoe” Thompson, a never before attempted 100-mile winter crossing on foot, snowshoes and skis, across the Sierra Mountain from Placerville, CA to Genoa, NV, retracing his inaugural Jan 3rd, 1856 mail carrying route.
The Expedition commences on Wednesday, March 6th at 7:00am from the Snowshoe Thompson statue in downtown Placerville, arriving in Genoa on Sunday, March 10th around 11:30am.
History Expeditions co-founders Bob Crowley and Tim Twietmeyer, veteran ultra-distance trail runners and amateur historians, accompanied by Jennifer Hemmen, a versatile ultra-distance and adventure athlete, Elke Reimer, a veteran ultra-distance runner, backpacker and trail steward and Hal Hall, an accomplished endurance equestrian rider and historian.
It is anticipated it will take the team 5 days to complete the expedition. The route will take them along the South Fork of the American River,  over the Sierra at Echo Lake (7,539’), down into the Tahoe Basin and along the Upper Truckee River, over Luther Pass (7,740′), down to Hope Valley, Woodfords and along the eastern base of the Sierra to Genoa, NV. Deep snow and frigid temperatures are anticipated, requiring much of the journey be done in snowshoes, skis and wilderness arctic gear. Progressing 10 to 35 miles per day, the hikers will set camp each evening nearby likely spots whereThompson would have rested.
- Appreciate the history, character and motivations of John “Snowshoe” Thompson, the obstacles he encountered and insights into his psyche throughout his journey,
- Share important new historical information and maps regarding the believed route of the Thompson’s inaugural Jan. 1856 mail delivery,
- Honor and reflect upon Thompson, his amazing endurance feats and selflessness to assure communications was maintained during the winter.
The adventurers will keep a daily journal during their journey. A film crew will be embedded to capture the conditions, terrain and team interaction. A GPS tracking system will trace the team’s movements live over the internet. Anyone can follow the expedition beginning March 6th here: https://trackleaders.com/snowshoethompson24
Photo Gallery
Additional Info
As an expression of respect, each team member will carry cards with member’s of John Thompson’s family and close friends photo and brief bio as a reminder of their accomplishments and relationships. Following the completion of the trek, team members will assemble at the Genoa Town Hall on March 10th, 1pm to share a presentation of their journey, sharing observations and impressions regarding the trail, conditions and obstacles encountered, and insight into Thompson and his achievements. All public are invited.