The National Park Service lists 8 things to do at Santa Fe National Historic Trail. 3 have no extra fee, 8 need no reservation, and 7 allow pets. Each listing links to the full NPS page. Data is from the NPS snapshot of Oct 28, 2026.
Learn about the Santa Fe Trail and earn your junior ranger badge! This activity can be completed virtually or after visiting a site along the Santa Fe National Historic Trail. Worksheets can be submitted either electronically or by mail.
Katy Trail State Park runs 240 miles across the state of Missouri between Clinton and Machens. Known as the country's longest continuous rail-trail, it attracts cyclists, walkers, equestrians, nature lovers, and history buffs seeking adventure along the…
There are a number of museums and visitor centers will differ along the Santa Fe Trail. In some places, you may find more interpretive exhibits, information, and programs.
Travel the trail today and you can almost hear the whoops and cries of "All's set!" as trail hands hitched their oxen to freight wagons carrying cargo between western Missouri and Santa Fe, New Mexico.
The entrance to the reconstructed fort is gained from the one-quarter mile paved pathway extending from the shade shelter to the fort doors. The pathway is wheelchair accessible; however, the perimeter and interior flooring of the fort plaza is loose sand.
There has been a lot of change since the mid 1800's. Landmarks are an opportunity to view the trail similar to the way the traders did. Some landmarks may sit in their original viewshed, giving you a real experience of stepping back to the trail days.
Imagine Prairie Schooners rumbling over the landscape, 10 feet tall and 23 feet long (with yoke). Imagine further that today you can still see evidence of those 44-50-inch diameter wooden wheels in the terrain from Missouri to New Mexico!
Visiting historic sites along the Trail will give you an opportunity to step back in time. Explore adobe ruins, historic military forts, and other sites that will give you an opportunity to experience the historic landscape. Start planning your trip today!
National Park Service Data API — things to do, snapshot of Oct 28, 2026. Descriptions are short excerpts; photos are NPS photos shown from nps.gov with their credit.