Register Cliff State Historic Site — Attraction in Guernsey

On our cross-country road trip, my daughter and I made a stop at a historic site along the Oregon Trail—one I was especially excited to see. Standing in front of the rock carvings left behind by travelers in the mid-to-late 1800s felt like stepping back in time, a tangible connection to the grit and determination of those who journeyed west. Unfortunately, that sense of awe was overshadowed by the countless modern names and dates carelessly etched into the same cliffside. It’s disheartening to see such a significant piece of history treated like a casual guestbook, especially by people who arrived here in the comfort of cars and climate control. If you go, take the time to appreciate the authentic markings for what they are—and please, leave no trace so future generations can...

An interesting historical monument in theory, a place where travelers on the oregon trail marked their names. However, if you come to Register cliff, you will find only carvings from the last 100 years, most from the 90s. While this does spark a good discussion of whether certain traditions (carving your name into a rock you've been to) should be carried on or if the history of the tradition should be preserved by ending the tradition, unfortunately that is the most interesting conversation register cliff is likely to spark. I do recomend going to the nearby trail rutts, very well maintained, and very interesting from a historical standpoint, unlike...

This was more disappointing than thrilling. I had hoped to find a cliff of ancient scrawls. Instead, I found an abundance of modern day scratches. You must walk along the trail and find the fenced in area to see anything. But even then, it is hard to see, hard to photograph, and if the light isn't right - hard to see / read anything.

It is neat, and interesting to imagine the historical reference. But it isn't worth the long drive. Visit if you are near viewing the...