National Old Trails Monument, Mohave County Travel Guide

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Honoring the pioneers and historic trails of the American West in Needles, California, along the legendary Route 66.

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National Old Trails Monument

The National Old Trails Monument in Needles, CA, commemorates the historic National Old Trails Highway, a precursor to Route 66, and honors the pioneers who traversed these routes. It stands as a reminder of westward expansion and the Mojave's rich history.

A brief summary to National Old Trails Monument

Needles, California, 92363, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring National Old Trails Monument.

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
Take time to read the informational plaques to fully appreciate the history behind the monument.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
Consider visiting in conjunction with other attractions along Route 66 for a fuller experience.

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Getting There

Walking

The National Old Trails Monument is located just across the bridge on the Needles side of the Colorado River. From the Greyhound bus station, head south on J Street for about 0.5 miles, then turn right onto E Broadway and cross the bridge. The monument will be on your right. The walk is approximately 1 mile.
Car

From I-40, take the River Road exit and turn onto Needles Highway. Drive east about 1 mile and turn left on K Street towards the bridge. The monument is on the California side of the bridge. From Laughlin, NV, head southeast on Needles Highway until you reach the intersection with E Broadway. Turn left onto E Broadway and cross the bridge over the Colorado River. The National Old Trails Monument will be on your right as you reach the Needles side. Parking is available near the monument. There are no tolls.
Public Transport

Take a Greyhound bus to Needles, CA. From the bus station, you can walk or take a taxi to reach the National Old Trails Monument. The monument is approximately 1 mile from the bus station. A short taxi ride from the Needles bus station to the monument will likely cost around $7 - $12.

Discover more about National Old Trails Monument

The National Old Trails Monument, found in Needles, California, marks a significant spot along the National Old Trails Highway, which later became part of the iconic Route 66. This monument pays tribute to the pioneering spirit of those who traveled westward, forging new paths and shaping the American landscape.The monument itself is a simple yet evocative marker that recalls the challenges and triumphs of early travelers. The old Indian trail, which is still visible in certain areas, runs roughly parallel to the Colorado River on the California side. This is the route followed by Garcés and his Mojave guides in 1776 and by Jedediah Smith in 1826.Visiting the monument offers a moment to reflect on the historical importance of the area. The monument is located near the bridge that marks the site where the National Old Trails Highway, and later Route 66, crossed the Colorado River. The site connects the Mojave Indian lands visited by Father Garces in 1776. Nearby, in 1826, Jedediah Smith and his band of Rocky Mountain men crossed the river and opened the Pioneer Trail into Southern California.Today, Needles is a popular stop for those traveling Route 66, offering a glimpse into the past with landmarks like the El Garces Harvey House and the Needles Regional Museum.