Mule Creek Junction, Wyoming facts for kids

Mule Creek Junction was once a small community in Niobrara County, Wyoming. It was located right where two important roads, US 18 and US 85, meet. This spot was a key stopping point for travelers heading to different towns in the region.

Exploring Mule Creek Junction's Location

Mule Creek Junction is found on the southwest edge of the Black Hills, a famous mountain range. This area is part of the "Wyoming High Plains," which means it's a generally flat, open landscape with a high elevation.

Rest Area and Surroundings

Today, a modern rest area for travelers is located on one corner of the Junction. It was rebuilt between 2007 and 2008. In the past, other corners of the Junction had places like gas stations and truck stops. The last of these buildings was taken down in the late 1990s after it was damaged. The Junction is also close to the Cheyenne River, adding to its natural setting. You can find signs at the rest area that tell you more about the history and nature of the area.

The History of Mule Creek Junction

The roads that meet at Mule Creek Junction have been used for a very long time. People started using these routes back in 1875 when gold was discovered in the Northern Black Hills, near a town called Deadwood.

Old Stagecoach Routes

The original Cheyenne-Deadwood Stage Route, which was used by stagecoaches, was about six miles east of the current Junction. This old route was actually the first path for US 85 until a new road was built in 1957–1958. That's why the current Mule Creek Junction is sometimes called "New Mule Creek Junction."

Changes to US Routes

Over the years, the highway system around Mule Creek Junction changed. An older route, called Alternate US 85, used to start at the original Mule Creek Junction. It followed the path of today's US 18 into South Dakota. This route was later removed when US 385 was created in the 1940s. US 18 is one of the very first US highways, established in 1926. It originally began at US 85 in the older Mule Creek Junction.

Life at the Junction

In 1964, about 30 people lived in Mule Creek Junction. A special rest stop that used solar power was built there in 1985. Because there was no local water source, 5,000 gallons of water had to be brought in by truck twice a month! In 1999, a fire damaged the convenience store, gas station, restaurant, and a house at Mule Creek Junction. Everyone inside was able to get out safely.