Directions

A map of the Western United States depicting a trail from Missouri west to California.
Where is this National Historic Trail?

Take a look at interactive, historic, and trip planning maps to learn more about locations along the trail.

 

The National Historic Trail is not a clearly marked hiking trail. Instead it is a route that passes through communities, urban areas, public lands, and Wilderness. The route travels across a variety of land ownerships and management, including private land. Because of the nature of the trail, it is not possible to travel directly on the full national historic trail route.

Trail sites offer opportunities to experience the trail and travel or recreate on portions of it. Each location varies as to the hours of operations and access. Please contact individual trail sites before your visit for more information.

Plane

You can reach the national historic trail by flying into a number of airports. Because of the nature of the trail and the site locations, traveling by car is the best way to visit the trail.

Car
You can reach some trail sites by auto on all-weather roads. Though some sites can be viewed from the road, many sites are on private land, and can't be physically accessed. Please respect the private landowners and do not trespass.

Bike
The historic route passes through private land, so it is not possible to bike the full trail. Other portions of the trail that are on public land might restrict biking access. Alternative biking routes and detours have been created by users and are available online. The National Park Service doesn't current promote one specific bike packing route.

Recreation
The public sites along the trail offer a variety of recreation opportunities, from hiking, biking, horseback riding to many others. Please check with the individual site for availability.

 
Brown sign, "California Trail Historic Route" with yellow triangle with logo.
National Historic Trail Signs

Follow the signs exhibiting the distinctive California National Historic Trail logo.

Three mobile phones displaying images from the homescreen of an app, with boxes and text.
NPS Mobile App

It's like having a ranger in your pocket! Download the NPS app, find the trail, and start planning your visit today.

The cover of an auto tour route guide, depicting a scene of emgirants travelings towards the river.
Trail Brochures

Find brochures, maps, guides, and other literature about the Trail.

A map of the United States with a trail from the midwest to California.
Places to Go

Where can you visit the trail? Use the interactive map to find places to visit.

Last updated: June 6, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

National Trails Office Regions 6, 7, & 8
California National Historic Trail
1100 Old Santa Fe Trail

Santa Fe, NM 87505

Phone:

N/A -N/A

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