National Historic Landmark - Wagon Mound
National Historic Landmark - Wagon Mound
Wagon Mound, a lone stone butte, was the last great landmark on the westward journey across the plains of northeastern New Mexico.
It was a guidepost seen by all travelers on the High Plains section of the Cimarron Cutoff of the Santa Fe Trail.
Santa Clara Spring, a natural camping spot two miles northwest of the mound, became the site of frequent Indian ambushes.
Wagon Mound thus began to serve not only as a guide, but as a warning to travelers.
Extensive ruts remain as evidence of the route of the trail.
