Last updated: January 23, 2023
Place
Raton Pass
Photo/NPS
Quick Facts
Location:
Interstate 25, near the New Mexico/Colorado border
Significance:
most important, yet treacherous, segments of the Mountain Branch of the Santa Fe Trail
MANAGED BY:
New Mexico Department of Transportation
Raton Pass, at the border of present day New Mexico and Colorado, was one of the most important, yet treacherous, segments of the Mountain Branch of the Santa Fe Trail. The pass cut through the snow-capped Sangre de Cristo Mountains, allowing wagons access to the vast western territory. Shorter routes were eventually developed, but Raton Pass, which crossed easier terrain, remained in use.
Site Information
Location (Interstate 25, near the New Mexico/Colorado border)