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Santa Fe National Historic Trail
Between 1821 and 1846, the Santa Fe National Historic Trail was the major trade and travel route between Old Franklin, Missouri and Santa Fe, New Mexico. Limestone posts mark the original trail route; well-preserved ruts are visible along many segments of the Trail. The Cimarron National Grassland contains 23 miles of the Santa Fe Trail - the largest section on public land.
At a Glance
| Operational Hours: | All day |
|---|---|
| Area Amenities: | Toilets, Drinking water, Parking |
| Fees: | None. |
| Permit Info: | Commercial outfitter and guides required to have a special use permit. Fees vary. Contact the Forest Service office in Elkhart, phone 620-697-4621, for further information. |
| Usage: | Light |
| Restrictions: | Trail is for non-motorized travel only. |
| Closest Towns: | Elkhart, Rolla, Hugoton, Kansas |
| Water: | None on Trail. Drinking water at Murphy and Conestoga Trailheads and Middle Springs Picnic Area. Best to carry water. |
| Restroom: | Vault at Murphy and Conestoga Trailheads and Middle Springs Picnic Area |
| Operated By: | USDA Forest Service |
General Information
Directions:Follow directions to Murphy or Conestoga Trailheads, Middle Springs Picnic Area, or Point of Rocks Interpretative Site to access Trail.
Activities
Mountain Biking
Dispersed Camping
Day Hiking
Backpacking
Horse Camping
Dispersed Camping with Horses permitted.
Horse Riding
Viewing Wildlife
Viewing Plants
Viewing Scenery
Amenities
| Toilets: | Vault at Trailheads. |
|---|---|
| Parking: | |
| Drinking water: | None on Trail. Drinking water at Murphy and Conestoga Trailheads. Best to carry water. |