I had seen this in Tripadvisor while we were at the nearby museums so I asked one of the docents about it and he said it was really close, so we drove down to just see the huge sculpture of the covered wagon on the Santa Fe Trail. We were not disappointed. We didn't hike the trail at all, but this stop for the sculpture was definitely worth it.

While looking for ruts of the Santa Fe Trail, we found a wonderful, expansive sculpture named Journey’s End located on Camino Lejo at Old Santa Fe Trail intersection. The vignette tells the story of westward expansion in the facial expressions and the pull of the mules to take the wagon uphill. Statues of the wagon master and horse, a boy, and dog complete the scene. This site is surely worth a short stop and a couple of photos.

Easy walk, many shops, restaurants, and entertainment. We enjoyed the old Santa Fe area. Parking is anywhere you can find and is free. Just don't forget where you parked as we did!

We only drove a short portion of the trail, then walked a few blocks of it once arriving in Santa Fe from the north, but our time in the plaza was wonderful. We were in awe of the adobe buildings and how they have been preserved to give the area a special historic feel. There are lots of souvenir shops and restaurants to choose from plus other attractions just a quick walk away. I didn't expect to enjoy the Georgia O'Keefe musuem, but it's very well laid out and shows her evolution as an artist. The vendors set up their wares later in the morning and it's always a treat to see what they have to offer.

If you fly in or out Albuquerque airport, somewhere along the line drive this trail from Albuquerque to Santa Fe or vice versa. It's the true landscape with small towns scattered along the way giving you the real feel of New Mexico. You will encounter a trading post, interesting small town shops, see coal mining as it might have been in it's hey day. I mean .... where else will you find a place called Hog Diner. The road is easily traveled at a leisurely pace. The was our favorite trail, even over the High Road & Low Road to Santa Fe. Why .... because it was more personal.