El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail

The 2,580-mile trail network connects historical sites across Texas through modern highways, rural roads, and preserved pathways marking Spanish colonial routes.

Spanish governor Alonso de León established the initial corridor between 1686 and 1690, creating a path that facilitated European settlement in East Texas.

Native American trading paths formed the foundation of this route, which later became essential for Spanish missionaries, Mexican settlers, and American immigrants.

Visitors can access detailed trail maps, interpretive centers, and educational materials at multiple locations along Texas Highway 21 and Louisiana Highway 6.

Granite markers placed by the Daughters of the American Revolution stand every five miles along the original trail segments, indicating historical crossing points.

Website: https://nps.gov/elte

GPS coordinates: 30.30077,-97.73510

Latest update: May 12, 2025 21:23