The visitor center at Fort Union Trading Post is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Days. From October 9 to March 30, it is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Admission to Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site is free, with no entrance fee or pass required.
From Williston, take Highway 1804 north for 25 miles, nearing the confluence of the Missouri and Yellowstone Rivers, to uncover a historic fur trading outpost steeped in international intrigue and natural beauty.
Fort Union Trading Post has two parking lots: the west lot accommodates school buses, tour buses, and RVs, while the smaller east lot, closer to the fort, includes reserved accessible parking. No overnight parking is allowed, and parking is free.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Tucked away near the confluence of the Missouri and Yellowstone Rivers in North Dakota, the Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site is a testament to the rich history and vibrant cultural exchange of the American West. This historic site, spanning 444 acres, stands as a partial reconstruction of the most significant fur trading post on the Upper Missouri River from 1828 to 1867.
Perched on a gravel bank high above the rivers to evade annual flooding, Fort Union commands a majestic view of the rolling countryside and the serene waters below. The site is a haven for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, with its well-preserved Greek Revival architecture and the surrounding prairie landscape that teems with wildlife.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the past through self-guided tours of the fort, exploring the reconstructed Post Managers’ house, now serving as the visitor center, and the museum showcasing a carefully curated selection of Native American made items and reproduction fur trade era goods. The outdoors beckons with trails and exhibits that highlight the intricate relationships between the trading post and the Northern Plains Indian Tribes.
During the warmer months, the site comes alive with the sounds of nature and the occasional ranger-led program. Though the area is not known for lakes, the riverside setting offers a tranquil backdrop for reflection and exploration. Nearby Williston, with its quaint charm and local artisans, provides a perfect complement to the historical experience.
Admission and parking are free, making this a accessible yet enriching destination for those seeking to delve into America’s storied past. Whether you are drawn to the historical significance, the natural beauty, or the unique cultural heritage, Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site is an unforgettable destination that embodies the essence of the American frontier.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 12 405
- Established year
- 1828
Top 3 Facts about Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site
The trading post annually exchanged over 25,000 buffalo robes and $100,000 in merchandise, showcasing the extensive scale of trade between the Northern Plains Tribes and global markets.
In this historic landscape, white-tailed deer and coyotes roam freely, while desert cottontails and ground squirrels dot the terrain. Beaver and muskrat inhabit the waterways, and mountain lions and Canadian lynx are occasional sightings. The skies are home to a diverse array of birds, and the waters host sauger and walleye. Native plant communities blend with remnant exotics, creating a unique botanical tapestry. This vibrant ecosystem offers a rich and immersive experience for those who venture here.
Along the Upper Missouri River, where the Yellowstone River converges, the waters flow with a soft, silty hue, a testament to the rich sediment carried from the vast prairies. The landscape is marked by a gentle terrace that bisects the area, offering a serene backdrop to the historic site, with temperatures fluctuating between harsh winters and warm summers, encapsulating the resilient beauty of the American heartland.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Arts & Crafts
- Virtual Junior Activities
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit during the summer for the Fort Union Rendezvous in June. Plan for a few days to explore trails and exhibits. Park in the designated lot and start at the visitors center. Anticipate mixed terrain and rest breaks. Limited on-site dining, so plan meals accordingly.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for extreme temperatures, sturdy shoes for uneven paths, and bug repellent for summer visits. Bring warm gear and waterproof clothing for sudden storms and snowy conditions. For camping, include insulated sleeping bags and a waterproof tent. Check the season to adjust your gear accordingly.
Respect Wildlife
Pack bug repellent for summer visits to ward off mosquitoes and ticks. Respect native flora and fauna by staying on trails and avoiding disturbance, especially during harsh weather conditions. Leave the area as you found it to preserve the natural balance.
Stay Informed
Watch your step on trails, avoid wildlife, and stay informed about weather and fire restrictions. Bring insect repellent and stay on marked paths. For emergencies, call park authorities at 701-572-9083.
Seasons
In spring, as temperatures rise to the 60s and 70s, experience the renewal of the American Frontier. Visit in June for the Fort Union Rendezvous, a vibrant 19th-century fur trade fair with period arts, crafts, and music. Mild weather makes spring an ideal time to immerse in living history.
Summer brings warm temperatures (70s-80s°F) and sunny days, ideal for experiencing the 19th Century Fur Trade Fair at the Fort Union Rendezvous in June, featuring period arts, crafts, and music. Enjoy reenactments and demonstrations amidst a vibrant historical setting.ethereum
Visit in fall for mild temperatures (50s-60s°F) and the Indian Arts Festival, showcasing Native American crafts and music, usually the first weekend in August. Crisp air and scenic landscapes make it an ideal time to immerse in 19th-century fur trade history.
Experience the serene winter landscape from November to March, with temperatures often below 34°F. Crisp air, occasional snow, and tranquil beauty make for a unique and peaceful visit, ideal for those seeking a quiet, immersive historical encounter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Fort Union Trading Post 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 the site is Williston, North Dakota, which is 25 miles northeast. Another nearby town is Sidney, Montana, 24 miles southwest. Commercial flights and vehicle rentals are available in both Williston and Sidney.
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Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Retractable leashes that extend beyond 6 feet are not allowed. This is a federal law requirement.
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Yes, parking is free. It includes wheelchair-accessible parking and a parking lot, but there is no overnight parking or camping for RVs, campers, or trailers.
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From 1828 to 1867, various Upper Missouri tribes such as the Assiniboine, Crow, Cree, Ojibway, Blackfeet, Hidatsa, and others traded buffalo robes, beaver pelts, and other furs for goods like beads, guns, blankets, knives, cookware, and cloth. The trading activities were often ceremonial, involving gift-sharing, traditional pipe-smoking, and speeches according to tribal customs. The post was located near the confluence of the Missouri and Yellowstone rivers and was established by the American Fur Company at the request of the Assiniboine Nation.