The Martin party was already in marching order and this camp was so poor that they did not wait, but gave all their oxen they had left to Mr.Brier and said they could get on faster without them.

They took a straight course over the hills and up the mountain, saying they believed they had provisions enough upon their backs to last them through, and that nothing should check their progress till they reached the other side, where they said were fertile valleys and plenty of chance to live.
The Doty party, or Jayhawkers, when they were ready started first a northerly course to find a more favorable place to cross the range and drove their oxen with them, each with a small pack.

They soon came to some good water, and after refreshing themselves turned westward to cross the great mountain before them.

Both men and oxen were shod with moccasins made of raw-hide to protect the feet against sharp rocks.

They could see no trail but merely picked out the best way to go.