Transportation on the Santa Fe Trail: American Solar Challenge

Overtime, Santa Fe Trail travelers used many types of transportation. Travelers continuously sought faster, easier, and more comfortable ways to travel. This desire drove transportation innovation, leading to new and improved transportation types. Explore the infographic below to learn more about the history of transportation on the Santa Fe Trail. While you’re exploring, consider what may come next.

Infographic Text:

9000 BCE: By Foot

Around 9000 BCE, Paleo-Indians arrive in the areas later known as the Santa Fe Trail. To get from place to place, they walk.

1500s: Horseback

Spaniards bring the modern horse to North America. Faster than walking, explorers and American Indians ride horses.

1821: Covered Wagons

The Santa Fe Trail is established. Traders use covered freight wagons to transport their goods.

1880: Train

The railroad reaches Santa Fe. The Santa Fe Trail can now be traversed by rail, a faster and more comfortable option.

1920s: Gasoline-powered Car

People use the gasoline-powered car to get around. No longer tied to train schedules, travelers enjoy the flexibility cars offer.

2021: Solar-powered Car

Solar cars designed by university teams compete in the American Solar Challenge on the Santa Fe National Historic Trail.