Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site in Colorado State

Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site

The adobe trading post known as Bent's Old Fort was the only permanent white settlement on the Santa Fe Trail between Missouri and New Mexico.

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Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site Details

The adobe trading post known as Bent's Old Fort was a true beacon to travelers on the Santa Fe Trail: built in 1833 on the banks of the Arkansas River, for years it was the only permanent white settlement on the trail between Missouri and New Mexico. Trappers, travelers, and members of the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes were among those who came to William and Charles Bent's trading post to do business and seek shelter and supplies. Now reconstructed, the fort is now populated by costumed interpreters who tell stories about famous visitors like Kit Carson and the fort's role in the trade for buffalo skins and in the Mexican-American War. The park visitor center has an interpretive film, and a 1.5-mile hiking trail along the Arkansas River offers opportunities for bird-watching.

Difficulty

Low

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Nearby Points of Interest Around Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site while the map context is still fresh.

26.0 mi away

John Martin Reservoir State Park

Along the Arkansas River you can find this water sports paradise, with excellent opportunities for fishing and swimming.

54.6 mi away

The Black Hole

Located in Two Buttes, this swimming hole may be out of the way for many visitors. But its off-the-beaten-path destination only adds to the appeal, making this one of the most unusual pools to stumble upon.

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Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site

In an infamous incident, U.S. cavalry troops attacked a largely undefended Colorado encampment of the Cheyenne and Arapahoe tribes on Nov. 29, 1864, slaughtering up to 200 people.

63.8 mi away

Chico Basin Ranch

This 90,000-acre property is more than just a working cattle ranch.

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Cottonwood Canyon

Birdwatchers are spoiled for choice when it comes to birding areas around Colorado, but the mountains valleys, and lush forests of this canyon in the Wasatch Range are one of the most popular.