Things To Do

Founded in 1853, the historic town of La Mesilla was originally located in Mexico and became part of the United States after the Gadsden Purchase of 1854. The town became a stop on the Butterfield Overland mail route, which linked St. Louis and San Francisco. La Mesilla lost its prominence when bypassed by the railroad in 1881. Today, the historic La Mesilla plaza welcomes trail travelers to enjoy its hospitality and culture.

NPS

 

Numerous activities are available along El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail. These include hiking, driving, visiting museums and visitor centers, and touring historic communities. Go to Places To Go for an interactive site map and a listing of sites by state that includes site name, address, phone number, access, historical significance, onsite interpretation, and website.

Go to the Publications web page to view / download / order the Official Map and Guide brochure.

Bring visitors to your El Camino site! Learn how to create a road sign plan in your area.

Nonfederal historic sites, trail segments, and interpretive facilities become part of the trail through certification. This is a voluntary process in which an owner or manager agrees to adhere to National Park Service standards for resource preservation and visitor use. Public lands and state, county, and city parks along the trail route preserve trail resources. Although not yet certified, they may be open for public use. Other trail sites are on nonprofit or private property and may not be open to the public.