Last updated: February 6, 2024
Place
Iron Spring, Comanche National Grassland
NPS Photo
Quick Facts
Location:
About 40 miles southwest of La Junta, Colorado
Significance:
Important stop on the Santa Fe Trail
Designation:
National Grassland
MANAGED BY:
The Santa Fe Trail crosses the landscape in front of you. Hundreds of southwest and plains tribes traveled this route to hunt and to trade. It was part of a network that connected indigenous people across North and South America. Later, Spanish, Mexican, New Mexican, and American travelers followed the trail to improve and enrich their lives.
"Iron Spring was an important water stop for travelers on the Santa Fe National Historic Trail. Depending on the season or weather conditions, several different routes to the spring were used. Between 1861 and 1871 Iron Spring was also used as a stage coach station. Trail ruts are still visible just west of the parking lot." (- US Forest Service)
Site Information
Location (About 40 miles southwest of La Junta, Colorado)
There are no restrooms or water at this site.