Trail of Tears National Historic Site

Trail of Tears
Remember and commemorate the survival of the Cherokee people, forcefully removed from their homelands in Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee to live in what is now Oklahoma. They traveled by foot, horse, wagon, or steamboat from 1838 to 1839.

1100 Old Santa Fe Trail
Santa Fe, NM 87505
United States

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505-988-6098

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Trail of Tears
Trail of Tears
Trail of Tears
Trail of Tears
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Discover Trail of Tears National Historic Site

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The Trail of Tears National Historic Trail commemorates the forced removal of the Cherokee and other Southeastern tribes from their ancestral lands to "Indian Territory" (present-day Oklahoma) in the 1830s. Spanning over five thousand miles across nine states, the trail marks the harrowing journey where thousands of Indigenous people suffered immense hardship and loss. Today, visitors can explore historic sites, museums, and interpretive centers along the route, reflecting on this tragic chapter in American history. The trail stands as a powerful reminder of resilience, survival, and the lasting impact of displacement on Native communities.

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Gift Horse: A Lakota Story

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Native American Wisdom

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Atlas of Indian Nations

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National Geographic Complete National Parks of the United States 3rd Ed

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Soul Would Have No Rainbow if the Eyes Had No Tears

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Explore More National Parks

David Kroese, author of "The Centennial: A Journey Through America's National Park System," reveals the hidden gems of the National Park System with Western National Parks Association's regional program manager, Caroline Lochner. "The Centennial: A Journey Through America's National Park System" details David's compelling explorations of 387 national parks in 360 days. The story continues through December 2017, when he becomes one of fewer than fifty people known to have visited all 417 national parks. Experience the inherent marvels within America's unique landscape and fascinating history, revealed in engaging context, poetic descriptions, and heartfelt appreciation. This book is available for purchase from our store. Go to the store

Pathway through rocky hills under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

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Visit key historic sites

Stops like New Echota in Georgia, Mantle Rock in Kentucky, and the Cherokee Heritage Center in Oklahoma provide deeper insight into the journey.

Explore the interpretive centers

Museums and visitor centers along the trail offer exhibits, artifacts, and personal stories from those who endured the removal.

Take a reflective walk

Some preserved sections of the trail, such as at Pea Ridge National Military Park in Arkansas, allow visitors to walk the path of history.

Learn Indigenous perspectives

Many tribal nations and cultural centers share the ongoing impact of the Trail of Tears, ensuring that the voices of those affected are heard.

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Over $162 million

Since our founding in 1938, WNP has provided more than $162 million in aid to our partner parks to fund educational programs, initiatives, and scientific research.

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