When he first encountered the Great Salt Lake on a solo exploration in 1824, the 20 year old Bridger thought he had discovered the Pacific Ocean.
While exploring South Pass, Bridger
turned south and floated down a small river through the Cache
Valley in a bull boat, Downstream, the creek eventually
flowed into what Bridger thought was the Pacific Ocean. In
fact, he had 'discovered' the Great Salt Lake, and twenty five
years later he would guide the Mormons to their future home.
Related People
Related Events