California's El Camino Real gains spiritual interest

The California Historic Mission Trail, known historically as ‘El Camino Real’, holds increasing significance as the Jubilee Year of St. Francis of Assisi progresses. Proclaimed by Pope Leo XIV and concluding on January 10, 2027, the Jubilee Year highlights the spiritual legacy of the 21 Catholic mission churches established in California between 1769 and 1823.

These missions, founded by St. Junipero Serra and fellow Franciscans, stretch from San Diego to Sonoma along or near U.S. Route 101. Historian and author Christian Clifford, who recently conducted a survey on the motivations of those walking the 800-plus mile route, noted that religious and spiritual reasons are the primary drivers for pilgrims. Other participants seek historical appreciation or athletic challenges.