Discover Springer: Santa Fe Trail and History

Springer gives your trip planning a clear historical focus: the Santa Fe Trail and the early railroad feature in several local themes. Add Springer Lake and Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, with opportunities for fishing, wildlife watching, and other outdoor activities. Some of the places mentioned are in Springer, while others are outside the town; the location and route details help clarify the difference.

Santa Fe Trail and Railroad History

The Santa Fe Trail is one of America’s first major trade routes. In Springer, the Santa Fe Trail Museum is located on the trail; it features exhibits and information about the route. The museum also serves as a regional center for interpreting the history of the Santa Fe Trail and the early railroad. It is housed in the former Colfax County Court House, built in 1881. The former courthouse thus connects its architectural history with the regional interpretation of trail and railroad history.

Historic Sites in Springer

The Point of Rocks Historic District in Springer has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1994. Immanuel Lutheran Church was built in 1938 by a predominantly German congregation. Mills House stands on the edge of Springer in Colfax County, New Mexico, on a slight rise near Cimarron Creek. These three examples offer different points of interest for a historical stay: a register listing, a church with a clearly dated building history, and a house in the landscape by the creek.

Springer was established in 1879 with the arrival of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroads. The BNSF Railway line still runs through town. These two facts refer to different periods: the first describes Springer’s origins, while the second describes the railroad line’s presence today.

Nature and Activities Outside Town

Springer Lake is four miles outside Springer and offers fishing for pike, catfish, and bass. Camping is also possible there. Fish populations and property rules may change; check the current regulations before fishing. For camping, it is also a good idea to check the current availability of facilities.

Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is about 12 miles north of Springer via I-25. Wildlife viewing is possible year-round, and camping, picnicking, and hiking are also offered. The activities differ when planning your day: fishing is a natural fit at the lake, while the refuge offers year-round wildlife viewing. Check which facilities are currently available before your visit.

Routes for Planning

The Santa Fe Trail route begins in Springer at the intersection of NM-21 and Maxwell Avenue. On the Santa Fe Trail, the byway branches south and east at Springer. The intersection marks the trail route’s starting point, while the byway junction indicates the two directions. Check current road conditions before setting out.

Explore more destinations: Raton, Angel Fire, Eagle Nest

For the main travel overview: Colfax.