| Feature | Oregon Trail | Santa Fe Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Destination | Willamette Valley, Oregon | Santa Fe, New Mexico |
| Distance | ~2,000 miles | ~800 miles |
| Duration | 4–6 months | 2–3 months |
| Terrain | Mountains, deserts, forests | Mostly desert, some mountains |
| Climate | Cold winters, hot summers | Hot summers, mild winters |
| Primary Travelers | Farmers, families | Traders, merchants, settlers |
| Major Challenges | Rocky Mtns, desert, Cascade Range | Raton Pass, Jornada del Muerto |