Bent's Old Fort: A Santa Fe Trail Trading Post
Explore a reconstructed 1840s fur trading post on the Santa Fe Trail, where cultures met and history was made.
Step back into the 1840s at Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site, a reconstructed adobe fur trading post on the Santa Fe Trail. Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the past as you explore this once-vital hub of commerce and cultural exchange between traders, trappers, and Plains Indians.
A brief summary to Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site
- 35110 CO-194, La Junta, Colorado, 81050, US
- +1719-383-5010
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information on visiting hours, tour schedules, and special events.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a short walk from the parking area to the fort, and you'll be doing a fair amount of walking around the grounds.
- Bring water and sun protection, as shade is limited, especially during the summer months.
- Take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the fort and the people who lived and worked there.
- Combine your visit with a trip to other nearby historic sites, such as the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site or the Amache National Historic Site.
Getting There
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Driving
Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site is located 8 miles east of La Junta, Colorado, on State Highway 194. From La Junta, take US Highway 50 to Highway 109 North for 1 mile, then turn east onto Highway 194 and drive 6 miles to the fort. Set your GPS to 35110 State Highway 194 E., La Junta, CO. There is a large parking lot at the visitor center. From the parking lot, a short walk is required to reach the reconstructed fort. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
Amtrak has a stop in La Junta. From the La Junta Amtrak station, the fort is 8 miles east via Highway 194. Consider a taxi or rideshare service for the final leg of the journey. A taxi from La Junta to Bent's Old Fort will cost approximately $20-$30.
Discover more about Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
La Junta Inn
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