The Rocky Mountains were rich in natural resources that the mountain men sought, such as beaver pelts, deer skins, and the meat from bison and elk.
Hunting and trapping:
New Mexico offered abundant hunting and trapping opportunities, making it a prime location for mountain men to make a living. They used their skills to trap, hunt, and trade.
Adventure:
Mountain men were typically drawn to the unknown, and New Mexico provided them with an opportunity for adventure and exploration.
Economic opportunities:
New Mexico was part of the Santa Fe Trail, a major trade route between the United States and Mexico. This provided an economic incentive for mountain men to come to the region and trade their furs for supplies.
Opportunities to meet Native American tribes:
Many mountain men were also interested in meeting and learning from Native American tribes. New Mexico was home to several Native American nations, and mountain men often had positive relationships with them.