• Juan Bautista de Anza

    National Historic Trail AZ,CA

For Teachers

The Anza Trail can be used as a teaching tool in a classroom. Students can experience the stories of the men, women, and children traveling along the trail route in 1776.

Curriculum Materials - 3rd-4th grade and high school lesson plans. Meet either California, Arizona, or national standards for different curriculums. Free!

Children's Drama Project - Bring the stories and relevance of the Anza Expedition to life through three plays designed for the 3rd or 4th grade. Download scripts as well as instructions for music, costumes, and props.

Junior Ranger Program - Classes can have some fun and learn more about the 1775-76 Spanish colonial expedition led by Juan Bautista de Anza. Students become expedition members and earn a National Park Service Junior Ranger badge (maintained by South Coast Railroad Museum).

Web de Anza: Teacher's Center - Resources available for teachers to share lesson plans and use resources on Web de Anza.

Go to "Plan a Field Trip" to access programs specific to San Juan Bautista State Park, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Malibu Creek State Park.

Did You Know?

The Anza Trail stretches from Nogales, Arizona to San Francisco, California

18th century Spanish military leader Juan Bautista de Anza, who led the expedition along the Anza Trail, was called 'Anza' when alive. About 100 years ago, someone mistakenly started calling him 'De' Anza. Use of the incorrect 'De Anza' name is rampant across the southwest on schools, parks, streets, and businesses. More...