Historical Marker
Santa Fe Trail Ruts
From 1821 until the railroad arrived in New Mexico in 1879, thousands of wagons hauled freight along the Santa Fe Trail between Missouri and Santa Fe. These wagons carved ruts which have since eroded and deepened, creating a wide swath which is the only visible remains of the Trail. Ruts of the Mountain Branch of the Trail can be seen 1.2 miles ahead.
The state has a rich tradition of cowboy culture and rodeo, with many annual events celebrating this heritage. One of the most famous is the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, which features hundreds of hot air balloons and draws thousands of visitors each year.