Experience the Rich History at Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site
Discover the vibrant history and cultural significance of Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site, a must-visit landmark in Colorado's rich heritage.
Explore the unique historical charm of Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site in La Junta, Colorado, where visitors can step back in time to experience life in the 19th century. This well-preserved adobe fort offers engaging exhibits and reenactments that capture the essence of frontier trade and life.
A brief summary to Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site
- 35110 CO-194, La Junta, Colorado, 81050, US
- +1719-383-5010
- Visit website
Local tips
- Plan your visit during the weekend for live reenactments and special events.
- Arrive early to enjoy a guided tour and avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes; the fort features uneven terrain.
- Check for seasonal hours, as they may vary throughout the year.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscape and historic architecture.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From Trinidad, take the local public bus service to La Junta. Buses typically depart from the Trinidad Transit Center located at 100 E Main St. Check the schedule for exact departure times, as there may be limited service. The bus ride to La Junta takes approximately 1 hour. Once you arrive in La Junta, you will need to walk to Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site. Head east on W 3rd St toward Santa Fe Ave, then turn right onto Santa Fe Ave. Continue walking until you reach the intersection with CO-194. Turn left onto CO-194, and you will find Bent's Old Fort approximately 4 miles down the road on your left.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bike in Trinidad. Start at the Trinidad Community Center, located at 1309 Beshoar Ave. From there, head east on Beshoar Ave toward N 2nd St, then turn left onto N 2nd St. Continue until you reach the junction with CO-350. Follow CO-350 east until it merges with US-350. Stay on US-350 until you reach La Junta. Once in La Junta, follow the same directions as above to reach Bent's Old Fort on CO-194, which is about 4 miles from the town center.
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Walking
If you're feeling adventurous and want to walk, you can do so by taking a long trek from Trinidad to Bent's Old Fort. Start at the Trinidad Transit Center and head east on Main St until you reach the outskirts of Trinidad. From there, you can follow the pedestrian paths along US-350. This is a long walk of approximately 25 miles and will take several hours, so ensure you have enough supplies and water for the journey. Once you reach La Junta, follow the directions provided above to Bent's Old Fort.
Discover more about Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site
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