National Historic Site · Colorado
Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site
In the 1840s the Arkansas River was the border between territory claimed by the United States and Mexico. Located along the river, Bent's Fort was an adobe trading post on the Santa Fe Trail, where traders, trappers, travelers, and the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes came together in peaceful terms for trade. Today, a reconstructed fort allows visitors to explore the front line of Westward Expansion.
Things to do
- Arts and Culture
- Craft Demonstrations
- Cultural Demonstrations
- Biking
- Road Biking
- Guided Tours
- Self-Guided Tours - Walking
- Hiking
- Living History
- Junior Ranger Program
- Wildlife Watching
- Birdwatching
- Park Film
- Museum Exhibits
- Shopping
- Bookstore and Park Store
- Gift Shop and Souvenirs
Weather & when to go
Summer temperatures are often in the high 90s and low 100s. Weather is generally fair in the fall and spring. Winter temperatures can be below freezing. Most of the replica fort is unheated and does not have modern cooling systems, so dress accordingly.
Operating hours
Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site
The park grounds are open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except on New Year's Day, the Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr, Washington's Birthday, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. During the off-season [October-March annually], the grounds are open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except for the holidays listed above. Plaza access into the reconstructed fort is on a separate schedule—see the event calendar for hours of operation on scheduled plaza access days.
Replica Fort
Five days a week the public is invited inside the 1976 replica of Bent’s Old Fort, entering through the zaguan gate and into the plaza. Park Rangers will be present to explain the features of the fort and its 20th century reconstruction. Entry into the replica fort is limited to the central plaza, except on guided tours, due to safety issues. For your safety, respect all closures and restrictions. Guided tours provide access to some furnished spaces.
FAQ
- Is Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site free to visit?
- Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
- What are the hours at Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site?
- The park grounds are open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except on New Year's Day, the Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr, Washington's Birthday, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. During the off-season [October-March annually], the grounds are open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except for the holidays listed abov…
- Do I need a reservation for Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.