Santa Fe Trail
Sierra Vista Overlook, CO

The Santa Fe Trail was an important transportation route for many making their way westward and south. Travelers along the trail would look for any known landmarks and set their sights on that during the long, arduous journey.

The Spanish Peaks were one such landmark, and these peaks come into view along the Sierra Vista Overlook. The area remains much as it did back then, and the views that you will be able to see are similar to those the early travelers saw. The changing horizon from plains to mountains is visible along this trail, with the Rock Mountains rising in view to the west and the expansive prairie to the east.

You can also follow a three-mile section of the Santa Fe National Historic Trail to Timpas Picnic Area. Look for the stone posts which mark the trail, beginning from the shelter.