Things To Do

A tipi at dawn.

NPS photo

Exploring the Land and Stories of Sand Creek

Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site allows visitors to explore the powerful story of the events that occured here and how it affected the Cheyenne and Araphao people, their resilience, and the impact of the massacre. Here, you can explore and connect with that story through a range of activities. Here’s how you can engage with the history of this site:

• Learn about the massacre from an interpretive ranger.

• Honor the deceased by paying respect at the Repatriation Area.

• Rest among the trees in the Orientation Area.

• Walk to the overlook on Monument Hill.

• Look for rare birds, insects, and flora.

• Admire the High Plains landscape as you continue along the Bluff Trail.

 

Getting Started

Make the Orientation Area and Visitor Contact Station your first stop at Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site, located in rural southeastern Colorado, 23 miles to the northeast of Eads, Colorado. This place invites you into the story of the events leading to the massacre. Here, you can connect with the history and legacy of this sacred place.

Accessibility

The Contact Station is designed to be accessible to everyone, whether you’re here for a short visit or an entire day, to learn about the history, resilience, and spirit of the site. Trails and parking areas are also accessible.

How to Find Us

• Address: 55411 County Rd W, Eads, CO 81036
• Coordinates: 38.54442307238851, -102.50438119421328
• Detailed Directions
• Hours of Operation and Seasons

Road Conditions

Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site is reached by traveling a minimum of 8 miles on dirt roads. Because of this, when there are significant amounts of rain or snow, it is recommended that you call the site at (719)-438-5916 to ask the on-duty Ranger for further information regarding road conditions. If you rely on navigation software, you may be routed on more than 8 miles of dirt roads.

Park Store

Inside the Contact Station, you’ll find a sales area, offering books, maps, and educational materials that allow visitors to further explore the Sand Creek Massacre story.

 

Relections on Place: Ranger Programs and Trails

Get to know the stories and landscapes of the Sand Creek Massacre in a meaningful way. Join a ranger for a talk or connect with the land itself on the two trails that invite you to explore this sacred place year-round. Each step on these trails offers a chance to feel the natural beauty and profound history that make the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site so special.