Watch America's Historic Trails

America's Historic Trails is a documentary series from PBS that explores the history and cultural significance of some of the most iconic trails in the United States. Through a combination of stunning visuals, expert commentary, and personal narratives, the show illuminates the stories of the people who traversed these trails and the impact that they had on American society.

Each episode focuses on a different trail, tracing the route from its origins to the present day. The featured trails include the Oregon Trail, the Santa Fe Trail, the Lewis and Clark Trail, the Juan Bautista de Anza Trail, and the Iditarod Trail, among others. These trails served as lifelines for early settlers, traders, prospectors, and explorers, and played a crucial role in the development of the American West.

The series draws on a range of perspectives to tell the story of the trails. Historians, archaeologists, and other experts provide in-depth analysis of the events that unfolded along each route, while descendants of the trailblazers share personal accounts of their ancestors' experiences. The combination of these perspectives provides a nuanced portrait of American history that is both educational and engaging.

The show also highlights the natural beauty of the landscapes through which the trails pass. Viewers are treated to breathtaking vistas of mountains, deserts, forests, and rivers, and are invited to consider the impact that these environments had on the people who traversed the trails. Along the way, the program investigates the flora and fauna of each trail, exploring the unique ecosystems that exist in each region.

One of the key strengths of America's Historic Trails is its emphasis on the multicultural aspects of American history. Many of the trails featured on the show were used by people from a range of cultural backgrounds, including Native Americans, Hispanics, Chinese, and African Americans. The show explores the complex relationships that existed between these groups and the dominant culture, and sheds light on the contributions that each group made to the development of the American West.

The show also considers the contemporary relevance of the trails. Many of the trails have been designated as National Historic Trails, and efforts are underway to preserve and protect them for future generations. The show examines the challenges of preserving these historic routes in the face of modern development, and considers the ways in which they continue to shape American identity and culture.

Overall, America's Historic Trails is an informative and engrossing series that offers a fresh perspective on American history. Through its vivid imagery and thoughtful analysis, the show invites viewers to explore the stories of the trailblazers who shaped the American West, and to consider the ongoing significance of their legacy. Whether you are a history buff or simply a lover of the great outdoors, this show is sure to inspire and educate.

America's Historic Trails is a series that ran for 1 seasons (7 episodes) between April 1, 1997 and on PBS