Springer connects the history of the Santa Fe Trail with railroad heritage and historic buildings. The Santa Fe Trail Museum is a specific point of reference: located along the trail, it offers exhibits and information about it and also focuses on the history of the early railroad. Outside Springer, fishing opportunities and wildlife viewing add to the picture. When planning, you can therefore choose between trail and local history or activities at Springer Lake or the Maxwell Wildlife Refuge.
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 route begins at the intersection of NM-21 and Maxwell Avenue. The museum serves as a regional center for sharing the history of the trail and the early railroad. It is housed in the former Colfax County Courthouse, built in 1881. Here, the history of a trade route and that of a historic building stand side by side.
The road's route also has a connection to the trail: near Springer, the byway branches off from the Santa Fe Trail to the south and east. This is distinct from its starting point at the intersection of NM-21 and Maxwell Avenue, which is part of the Santa Fe Trail route. If you are planning a drive along the byway, check road conditions beforehand.
Historic Sites and Buildings
Springer's Point of Rocks Historic District has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places since 1994. Immanuel Lutheran Church was built in 1938 by a predominantly German congregation. The two sites offer different points of historical interest: for the district, its listing in the National Register is the main focus; for the church, its origins in the congregation.
The Mills House stands on the outskirts of Springer in Colfax County, New Mexico, on a slight rise near Cimarron Creek. Railroad history is also part of the town's story: Springer was established in 1879 with the arrival of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroads. The BNSF railway line still runs through Springer.
Fishing and Nature in the Area
Springer Lake is four miles outside Springer and offers opportunities to fish for pike, catfish, and perch. The lake is also suitable for camping. Fish populations and site rules may change, so check the current regulations before fishing. Before camping, also check which facilities are currently available.
The Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is about twelve miles north of Springer via I-25. Wildlife can be viewed there year-round; activities also include camping, picnicking, and hiking. Check current facilities before your trip.
The two destinations also differ in location: Springer Lake is four miles outside town, while the Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is about twelve miles north via I-25. This makes it easy to choose the focus of your outing: fishing at the lake, or wildlife viewing and other activities at the refuge. Plan your drives accordingly and take the respective road conditions into account.
Discover more destinations: Raton, Eagle Nest, Angel Fire.
To the overview of the region: Colfax.
