The visitor center at Fort Union National Monument is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
There is no entrance fee to visit Fort Union National Monument. However, if you plan to visit other national parks, you can purchase an America the Beautiful/National Park Pass for $80, which covers entrance fees for a year.
From Las Vegas, NM, take I-25 North, exit 366 at Watrous, and drive 8 miles on NM 161. Immerse yourself in the historic grandeur of a 19th-century military fort, set amidst a sweeping short grass prairie.
Parking is at the Fort Union Visitor Center, 8 miles off I-25 on NM 161. The lot has standard, handicapped, and oversized spaces for campers, buses, and large RVs. No overnight parking, no fees. Motorcycles welcome.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Fort Union National Monument, situated in the expansive Mora Valley of northeastern New Mexico, is a testament to the region’s rich historical and natural tapestry. This national monument, established in 1954, preserves the remnants of three forts built starting in the 1850s, each a silent witness to the frontier era of the American West.
The monument’s landscape is defined by the sweeping short grass prairie and the eroded pathways of the Santa Fe Trail, its ruts still visible from the road. The adobe-walled ruins of the second and third forts stand against the backdrop of the Great Plains, their earthy tones blending seamlessly into the terrain. A self-guiding trail meanders through these ruins, offering an intimate exploration of the site’s historical significance.
The visitor center, located at an altitude of 6,760 feet, houses a historical museum and a film that delves into the fort’s storied past. The surrounding area is dotted with the ordnance depot and the site of the first fort, visible across the valley.
As an International Dark Sky Park, Fort Union National Monument offers a celestial experience unlike many others. The clear, star-filled skies are best appreciated during the new moon and astronomical twilight, creating an enchanting setting for stargazers.
Seasonal changes paint the landscape with vibrant hues; the summer months bring warmth and long days, while the winter months wrap the area in a serene quietness. The monument is open daily, except for major holidays, and admission is free, making it an accessible yet profound experience for travelers.
Nearby, the town of Watrous provides a charming contrast with its local artisans and quaint shops. For those seeking to immerse themselves further, the monument’s proximity to the Santa Fe Trail invites exploration of other historic sites like Fort Larned.
- Area (mi²)
- 1.1
- Annual visitors
- 12 000
- Established year
- 1851
Top 3 Facts about Fort Union National Monument
The second fort is the sole surviving earthen star fort west of the Mississippi River, with its earthworks still intact, and it features a 1.6-mile self-guided trail that interprets the ruins.
In this vast landscape, pronghorns and elk roam freely, while black bears and mountain lions inhabit the shadows. The skies are filled with the melodies of western meadowlarks and the swift flights of cliff swallows. On the ground, kangaroo rats and Botta’s pocket gophers digging intricate networks, and sagebrush and skunkbush add a fragrant aroma to the air. This is a realm where natural beauty and biodiversity thrive, inviting you to immerse yourself in its unique splendor.
Surrounded by the High Plains, this landscape is defined by the imposing Black Mesa, a Dakota Sandstone formation elevated several hundred feet above the plain by a fault. The mesa is capped with basalt from the Ocaté volcanic field, adding a dramatic layer to the horizon. Beneath, the dark gray Graneros Shale, deposited in shallow marine conditions 100 million years ago, underlies the area, its thickness estimated at approximately 150 feet. This geologically rich terrain offers a unique blend of ancient sea beds and volcanic history.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit during summer for extended hours (8am-5pm). Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for extreme sun and wind. Allow a few hours to explore the 1.25-mile crushed gravel trail and visit the renovated visitor center. Check for special events like guided tours and talks. Bring water and snacks as options are limited.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for varying temperatures, sturdy hiking boots, and a waterproof jacket. Bring a tent, sleeping bag, and camping stove for extended stays. Don’t forget headlamps, matches, and a first-aid kit. Check the weather forecast to adjust your gear accordingly.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the shortgrass prairie and its inhabitants by staying on designated trails, avoiding invasive plant spread, and not disturbing wildlife, especially during hot summer months. Leave no trace to preserve this unique ecosystem.
Stay Informed
Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against intense sun and wind. Stay on marked trails, avoid tall grass and rubble, and stay informed about weather and fire restrictions. For emergencies, call park authorities at 505-425-8025.
Seasons
In spring, mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and blooming wildflowers set the stage for an immersive experience. Join the Junior Ranger Day in April for interactive programs and historic demonstrations, or celebrate the 71st Anniversary in June with black powder weapon displays. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Summer brings warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and clear skies, ideal for living history talks and demonstrations on weekends. Don’t miss the annual Fort Union Days in June, a two-day event filled with guest speakers, cannon firings, and guided tours. Perfect for history enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
Visit in fall for crisp temperatures (50s-70s°F) and golden landscapes. Attend the Lantern Lit Legacies tour in September, a 45-minute lantern-lit journey through historic ruins, followed by a dark sky program. Ideal weather, fewer crowds, and unique evening events make autumn a perfect time to explore.
Visit from December to February, with temperatures in the 40s-50s Fahrenheit. Expect crisp air, potential snow, and strong winds. Ideal for a serene, less crowded experience amidst historic ruins and vast landscapes. Pack warmly for an unforgettable winter escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Fort Union National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
The closest city to Fort Union National Monument is Watrous, New Mexico, located about 7.7 miles south of the monument in Mora County.
-
Dogs are allowed on trails and in picnic areas as long as they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet. However, they are not permitted inside public buildings such as the Visitor Center, museum, or public restrooms. You can also participate in the BARK Ranger Program to learn responsible practices and earn a special dog tag.
-
There is no entrance fee or parking fee to visit the park. You can park your vehicle, including campers, trailers, motorhomes, or camper vans, without any additional cost.
-
Take a self-guided walk on the 1.25-mile interpretive trail to explore the entire fort, or opt for a shorter 0.5-mile walk. Participate in ranger-guided programs, which are usually offered daily. Visit the visitor center and museum to learn more about the history of the fort, which was established in 1851 to protect the Santa Fe Trail.