At the Three Island Crossing of the Snake River, usually by mid-August, Oregon Trail pioneers faced a difficult choice between attempting a sometimes dangerous river crossing by using the islands as giant stepping stones or taking the safer but drier route along the south bank. About half attempted the crossing, and diary accounts recorded many deaths and even greater loss of personal belongings. A successful crossing provided a shorter route and better food for livestock. The Three Island Ford remained in use by Oregon Trail pioneers until 1869, when Gus Glenn built a ferry about two miles upstream.