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Fort Uncompahgre: A Journey into Colorado's Fur Trading Past

Discover the rugged history of Colorado's Western Slope at Fort Uncompahgre, a living replica of an 1820s fur trading post on the Old Spanish Trail.

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Step back in time at Fort Uncompahgre, a reconstructed 1820s fur trading post in Delta, Colorado. Explore the authentic replica of Antoine Robidoux's original fort, where trappers and Native Americans once exchanged furs for essential goods. Experience the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of the early Western frontier.

A brief summary to Fort Uncompahgre Interpretive Center + Public Lands Information Center

  • Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a Tuesday or Thursday for a guided tour to gain deeper insights from knowledgeable staff.
  • Check the center's website for special events and educational programs that may enhance your experience.
  • Allow time for a leisurely walk around the grounds to appreciate the historical setting and scenic landscapes.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Delta, head east on Main Street (US-50). Turn left onto Palmer Street. The Fort Uncompahgre Interpretive Center will be on your right at 440 Palmer St. There is no fee for walking.

  • Public Transport

    Delta has limited public transportation options. Check local Delta County transit schedules for any available bus routes that may serve the general area of Palmer Street. From the nearest bus stop, follow Palmer Street to the Fort Uncompahgre Interpretive Center at 440 Palmer St. Bus fares typically range around $2.00 - $4.00 for a single ride.

  • Driving

    From Highway 50 in Delta, turn onto Palmer Street. The Fort Uncompahgre Interpretive Center is located at 440 Palmer St. Parking is available at the entrance to Confluence Park next to the Gunnison River. Parking is free.

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Discover more about Fort Uncompahgre Interpretive Center + Public Lands Information Center

Fort Uncompahgre Interpretive Center offers a captivating glimpse into the early days of commerce on Colorado's Western Slope. Located in Delta, the center is a reconstruction of the original Fort Uncompahgre, established in 1828 by Antoine Robidoux. This living history museum recreates the sights, sounds, and experiences of a 19th-century fur trading post. Visitors can explore the reconstructed fort, complete with authentic trade goods, piles of furs, and animal hides. Knowledgeable staff in period attire guide visitors through the past, offering insights into the daily life and interactions of fur traders and local Native American tribes, including the Ute. The original Fort Uncompahgre was a central hub for trade and travel routes throughout the West, situated near the confluence of the Uncompahgre and Gunnison Rivers. It served as a vital link along the Old Spanish Trail, facilitating the exchange of goods between Santa Fe and Los Angeles. While the original fort was attacked in 1844, the interpretive center stands as a tribute to the diverse cultures that shaped the region. It highlights the influences of Spanish, Ute, American, and French cultures. Today, Fort Uncompahgre also serves as a Public Lands Information Center, providing maps and information about dispersed camping and selling permits.

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