The Santa Fe Trail is a tranquil drive through Southweast Colorado. It roughly follows the national historic trail by the same name.
The Colorado portion begins east of Lamar on the Kansas border. It then travels southwest past La Junta, Trinidad and into New Mexico. This historic trade route was heavily used between the 1820s and 1870s.
Activities
Biking – Follow the quiet paved Auto Route through Southeast Colorado.
Camping – You can find dispersed camping in the Comanche National Grassland. There are also modern campgrounds at John Martin Reservoir and Trinidad Lake.
Hiking – Trek the whole national historic trail or just sections around Trinidad or La Junta.
Horseback Riding – Permitted on parts of the Santa Fe Trail.
Scenic Drive – The Auto Tour Route traces the original Santa Fe Trail the best it can. The 188 mile Colorado section takes about four hours (one way), and has been designated a national scenic byway.
Details
Nearby Towns:
Season: Year Round
Length: 188 miles / 4 hours
Fees: None
Map: Santa Fe Trail Byway (.png)
Website: codot.gov/…
