| an important trade route going between Independence, Missouri, and Santa Fe, New Mexico, used from about 1821 to 1880. |
| Santa Fe Trail A trade route to the southwest United States extending about 1,287 km (800 mi) westward from Independence, Missouri, to Santa Fe, New Mexico. First traversed in 1821, it was the primary wagon and stage route to the Southwest until the coming of the railroad in 1880. |
Trail extending from Independence, Missouri, southwest to Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Note: Important route used by settlers moving west.