Section 1: Location and Maps
Location of Byway Relative to the Trail
The historic Santa Fe Trail Scenic and Historic Byway Mountain Branch winds its way parallel to the original Santa Fe Trail, particularly along the stretches from Kansas to New Mexico. With maps to guide today's adventurers, the Byway offers an accessible route through the scenic landscapes and rich history of the Mountain Route of the Santa Fe Trail.
Corridor Boundaries
The boundaries defining the Byway corridor are as diverse as the trail's storied past, stretching generously around the original route. The corridor encompasses pivotal historic sites and tells tales of the travelers and settlers drawn by the trail during its landmark era.
Land Use
Agriculture paints the primary backdrop alongside the Byway, with areas used extensively for cultivating various crops and ranching. The presence of prime farmland reaffirms the region's longstanding relationship with the land—a legacy dating back to the Trail's earliest days.
Land Ownership
Land ownership within the Byway's reach is a mosaic of federal, state, and private properties. These lands are home to historic sites, wildlife areas, and scenic parks that serve as testaments to both natural beauty and historical significance.
Maps
Accompanying maps offer a wealth of information, showcasing public lands, visitor services, and the layered histories engraved within the landscape—indispensable tools for any modern journey along the Byway.
Section 2: Back to Main Contents
Exploring Beyond the Byway
While the Santa Fe Trail Scenic and Historic Byway Mountain Branch offers a direct connection to the past, the surrounding influence zone enriches its appeal, ensuring that the echo of history can be heard and felt even as one ventures off the beaten path for more adventurous biking and hiking experiences.
The Trail Today: A Conduit for Travel
Today, the Santa Fe Trail Byway is more than just a gateway to history; it's a vibrant thoroughfare for explorers seeking the allure of the past amid the beauty of the present. From the footsteps of ancient travelers to the tire tracks of modern bicycles, the trail is a continuous journey of discovery. It invites hikers and bikers alike to traverse the wide-open spaces and captivates them with its enduring narrative—a timeless American odyssey best savored in the spirit of exploration.