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  Anza Trail

Discover the Spanish history of the American Southwest along the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. Southern Arizona is the gateway to the 1,210-mile trail that commemorates the route followed in 1775–76 by a Spanish commander, Juan Bautista de Anza II, who led a party of 240 colonists on an expedition from Mexico to found a presidio and mission near the San Francisco Bay.

1. Tubac Presidio State Historic Park Add To myTucson Vacation Planner
Off I-19, 1 Burruel St., Tubac, AZ. Open daily, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Christmas day. Contact park for current entrance fees: 398-2252. Allow 1–2 hours.
Founded in 1752 as a Spanish presidio to defend the mission at Tumacacori and the village of Tubac—known today as the oldest European-settled city in Arizona. From this location, Anza staged two overland expeditions to what was then known as Alta California. The ruins of Anza’s house can be viewed through an underground archeological exhibit.

2. Arizona Folklore Preserve Add To myTucson Vacation Planner
Reservations required: 520-378-6165, off AZ Hwy. 92, 44 Ramsey Canyon Rd. West, Hereford, AZ. Weekends only. Donation of $12/adult requested. Limited parking prohibits recreational vehicle (RV) parking.
Located near Sierra Vista, in Ramsey Canyon, on the eastern slopes of the Huachuca Mountains. Where Arizona’s songs, legends, poetry, and myths are collected, presented for audiences of today, and preserved for the enrichment of future generations

3. Tumacacori National Historical Park Add To myTucson Vacation Planner
398-2341, off I-19, near Tubac. $3/adults, under 16 free. Grounds and museum open 8 a.m.–5 p.m. daily. Allow one hour.
The abandoned ruins of three ancient Spanish colonial missions are here on 45 acres. The mission San Jose de Tumacacori first was listed in 1691 as an outlying visita by Father Kino, and is one the oldest in Arizona. Tumacacori contributed a herd of cattle to the Anza expedition and Father Font, a member of Anza’s colony, stayed here while Anza marshaled his forces at Tubac.

4. Mission San Xavier del Bac Add To myTucson Vacation Planner
294-2624, off I-19 at exit 92. Free. 7 a.m.–5 p.m. Allow 2–3 hours.
Established by Father Kino in 1732 and listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The Anza expedition stopped on October 25, 1775 to mourn the only death on the expedition and to celebrate three marriages. The mission is noted for its beautiful Spanish colonial architecture and colorful art adorning the interior.