The visitor center at Bent’s Old Fort is open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, seven days a week, except for New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Washington’s Birthday, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. The park grounds are open from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Adults 16 and older pay $10 each; children 15 and under are free. Weekly passes allow 7-day entry, and annual passes permit unlimited entry for the cardholder and three additional adults for one year.
From La Junta, take Highway 194 East for 8 miles, immersing yourself in the vast plains and historic charm of a 19th-century trading post.
Parking is available in the designated visitor parking lot, accessible via public roadways. It accommodates cars, RVs, and motorcycles, but overnight parking is not permitted. There are no parking fees. The lot is located near the paved trail to the fort.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site, located in the vast expanse of southeastern Colorado, is a testament to the region’s rich history and the confluence of cultures along the Santa Fe Trail. Built in 1833 by William and Charles Bent, along with Ceran St. Vrain, this adobe fort was a pivotal trading post where traders, trappers, and the Southern Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes intersected in a time of significant Westward Expansion.
The fort, reconstructed in 1976, stands as a sturdy parallelogram with thick adobe walls and round bastions, evoking the robust security it once provided. The main entrance, facing east in respect of Native American customs, opens to a complex that was once the heart of a thriving trade empire. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in living history, with period furnishings and historical reenactors bringing the fort to life.
Surrounded by the expansive plains and the Arkansas River, the site offers a unique glimpse into the lives of early settlers and Native American tribes. The area is devoid of the lush landscapes often associated with national parks, but its arid beauty is punctuated by the historic significance and the stark contrast of the adobe structure against the open sky.
Special events and activities, such as ranger-led tours and historical reenactments, provide a deeper understanding of the fort’s role in American history. Nearby La Junta offers a charming complement to the fort, with its quaint shops and local eateries. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the fort’s living history days and seasonal festivals are not to be missed. This site is a must-visit for anyone eager to delve into the intricate tapestry of American history and experience the rugged beauty of the southern plains.
- Area (mi²)
- 1.3
- Annual visitors
- 24 000
- Established year
- 1833
Top 3 Facts about Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site
The fort featured two cylindrical bastions, each about 3 meters in diameter and 9 meters high, located at the northwest and southeast corners, providing defensive capabilities with portals for cannon and small firearms.
In this semi-desert prairie and riparian habitat, White-tailed and Mule deer roam freely, while Coyotes and Wild turkeys make occasional appearances. The skies are filled with 99 species of birds, and the grounds are home to Desert cottontails, Western rattlesnakes, and three species of turtles, including the Spiny softshell turtle. Trails winding through wetlands, marshes, and short grass prairies offer glimpses of Plains leopard frogs and Bullsnakes, making each visit a rich tapestry of wildlife encounters.
Along the Arkansas River, the landscape unfolds with gently sloping valleys and sand bluffs, where clear water flows rapidly against a backdrop of green grass and tree-lined banks. The area is characterized by shortgrass prairie, dominated by grama and buffalo grasses, at an elevation of 4,035 feet. The bedrock, composed of Bridge Creek Limestone, adds a geological depth to this scenic tapestry.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demons.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan for a memorable afternoon, especially during the cooler spring season. Allow 2 hours to explore, including a guided tour. Wear good walking shoes, bring a water bottle, and sunscreen for the 1/4 mile walk from parking. Check the visitor center for maps and guides. Limited food options on site, so plan meals accordingly. Currently, the reconstructed fort is closed, but grounds and trails are open.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a daypack with water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. For camping, bring a tent, sleeping bag, and camping stove. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, and never feed them. Stay on trails, dispose of trash properly, and avoid disturbing natural habitats to preserve the unique flora and fauna. Respect the environment as you would your own backyard.
Stay Informed
Check weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out. Wear appropriate clothing and stay alert near ledges and water. Follow park rules and contact authorities at 911 for emergencies.
Seasons
In spring, mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and blooming flora envelop this historic adobe trading post. Attend the ‘Significantly Others’ program in April, exploring Native American and New Mexican influences. Comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen are a must for this immersive experience.
Visit in summer for warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and vibrant events. Enjoy the Old-Fashioned Fourth celebration in July, with historical reenactors and period activities amidst the reconstructed 19th-century trading post. Hot days, but immersive living history experiences make it worth the visit.
Visit in fall, when mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and crisp air enhance the historic charm. Experience the bustling trade season, with guided tours and cultural events, as the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes bring in tanned robes. A perfect time for a hike into history.
Experience the serene winter landscape from January to March, with temperatures ranging from 37°F to 70°F. Snowfall averages 2-3 feet, creating a tranquil backdrop. Though extremely cold days can occur, the site’s historic charm and fewer crowds make it an inviting winter destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Bent’s Old Fort is La Junta, Colorado, which is about 8 miles west of the fort. The fort is accessible via US Highway 50 and Highway 194 from La Junta.
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Dogs are not allowed inside the fort or its rooms. They can only be on the trail or in the plaza area, and must be leashed and kept away from livestock. Service animals are an exception and can go everywhere visitors can.
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Yes, there is parking available, with a parking lot located about a quarter of a mile north of the fort. The lot has restrooms and a trailhead for the walk to the fort. It is accessible for vehicles, including RVs, though the site does not specify any size restrictions for motorhomes or campers.
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Bent’s Old Fort was built in 1833 by William and Charles Bent, along with Ceran St. Vrain, to trade with Southern Cheyenne and Arapaho Plains Indians and trappers for buffalo robes. The fort, located on the Arkansas River, was a key stop for travelers and traders. It was used as a supply station by the Army of the West during the U.S.-Mexico War, which began in May 1846. In 1840, it was a site where the Cheyenne, Kiowa, Apache, and Comanche people made peace and traded goods and stories.