The Mormon Trail: A Photographic Exhibit. After leaving Nauvoo, Illinois, in 1846, the Mormons headed west. They spent the winter of 1846-47 in Winter Quarters near Omaha and at various places in Iowa, resuming their journey in the spring. First to leave Winter Quarters that spring was the advance party under the personal direction of church president Brigham Young. Organized for rapid travel, it consisted of 143 men, just 3 women, and 2 children. They traveled in 72 well-loaded wagons and made good time.