The Santa Fe Trail Scenic Byway is a 142-mile long scenic drive through the southeastern part of Colorado, passing through the towns of Trinidad, La Junta, and Walsenburg. The byway offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and grasslands, and is known for its scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and historic sites.
The byway begins in the historic town of Trinidad and continues through the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, passing through the Comanche National Grassland and the Santa Fe National Historic Trail, offering a variety of recreational opportunities like hiking, wildlife viewing and bird watching. The byway also offers several scenic viewpoints, such as the Fisher's Peak State Park and the Santa Fe Trail Center Museum, which offers visitors information about the natural and cultural history of the area.
The byway also offers several opportunities for wildlife viewing, including pronghorn, bison, and a variety of bird species. The Santa Fe Trail Scenic Byway is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historic sites.
Visitors can expect to see a diversity of wildlife and plants, take in beautiful vistas, and also learn about the history of the area. The byway is typically open year-round, but some sections may be closed during the winter or due to inclement weather.