Old Spanish National Historic Trail

The strategy described here provides guidance for the administration of the entire trail and a vision to be fulfilled through future, specific resources studies, and site and segment management plans. Much of the basis for the “Comprehensive Administrative Strategy” was developed during the earlier comprehensive management plan efforts.

by Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service

This comprehensive administrative strategy presents several options for how administration can be implemented along the entire trail. These approaches to administration provide for general preservation, protection, and public access and meet the goals of the National Trails System Act. Administration activities will focus on providing an outdoor recreation experience that promotes the preservation of the public’s access to, travel within, and enjoyment and appreciation of the Old Spanish Trail’s historic resources. This includes its cultural landscapes, and efforts to maintain and enhance the “historic significance,” “historic remnants,” “scenic quality,” and “freedom from intrusion.” This also encompasses opportunities to vicariously share the experience of the original users of [the] historic route[s], while also developing trail experiences that will benefit both traditional and modern communities.

Published December 2017

About the Authors


The Bureau of Land Management in the US Dept. of the Interior sponsors many courses and workshops through a variety of training opportunities. Trails, recreation, land management, technical training, and public involvement are topics that are frequently covered. The BLM has also been a leader in establishing and developing the National Trails Training Partnership.


The National Park Service (NPS) was created in 1916 and today manages over 390 units found in all 50 states and some of the U.S. territories. NPS supports and operates trails in three interlocking arenas: trails in parks, technical assistance to States and communities, and administration of much of the National Trails System.

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