Comanche National Grassland
The first time visitor to the Comanche National Grassland is usually surprised to find such a varied landscape from rolling short grass prairies to rugged canyons rimmed by pinion-juniper forests. The Comanche National Grassland is responsible for the management of 443,764 acres of range lands and 300 different species of birds, reptiles, amphibians, & mammals. Not only that but the Comanche National Grassland encompasses a fascinating landscape that reveals the history of the region in its exposed rock layers of prehistoric sea beds and ancient lake shores rift with dinosaur tracks.
Cultural sites in the grasslands represent a diverse history spanning thousands of years. These vast expanses and hidden canyons were once the home to Native Americans who left their messages in the form of petroglyphs and pictographs on the cliff faces and rock overhangs throughout the region. Early traders passed through the area on the Santa Fe Trail, the canyons protect the rock walls of old stage stops from the days before the railroad, and ruins of early homesteads and ranches remain to remind us of life in another era.
Things to Do
Carrizo Auto Tour Interpretive Site Informational kiosks for this self-guided, 180-mile tour highlights many points of interest, scenery, and amenities found on the Carrizo Unit including the Granada-Fort Union military road, Carrizo and Picture canyons, and the Aubry cutoff of the Santa Fe Trail. Roads are good when dry, but use caution if wet.
Carrizo Canyon The east fork of Carrizo Creek flows through this small canyon graced by juniper and cottonwood trees. American Indian petroglyphs can be found along the canyon walls. A variety of wildlife, especially birds, can be seen in the early morning or before sunset.
Iron Spring Interpretive Site Iron Spring was an important water stop for travelers on the Santa Fe National Historic Trail. Depending on the season or weather conditions, several different routes to the spring were used. Between 1861 and 1871, Iron Spring was also used as a stage coach station. Trail ruts are still visible just west of the parking lot.