Explore This Park

• Plan Your Visit
  • Things To Do

Things To Do

Walking the Santa Fe Trail during a special event.

NPS Photo

 

Tours and Documentary Film
A 1/4 mile walk down the trail will bring you to the gate of the fort. Inside you can view the 20 minute documentary film, "Traders, Tribes and Travelers". Self-guided tours and the film are available throughout the year. Living history interpreters provide guided tours and demonstrations June 1 through September 1 at 9:30 am, 11:00 am, 1:00 pm and 2:30 pm. From September through May guirded tours are at 10:30 am and 1:00 pm. Guided tours are not available during special events. Organized group tours can be reserved by calling [phone].

 

2018 Special Events
The fort will come to life during the June 8-9 Santa Fe Trail Day, March 17 Frontier Skills Day, July 4 Celebration, July 7 Kid's Quarters, September 15 Hispanic Heritage Day, November 20 Native American Day and the December 7-8 Tradtional Holiday Celebration Click here for the calendar of events.

 

Hiking trail

NPS

Bent's Old Fort Hiking Trail
Visitors can hike a mile and a half trail that winds its way through the cottonwood trees alongside the Arkansas River. The marsh is home to several species of birds. Interpretive exhibit signs tell the story of the river ecosystem, Santa Fe Trail and Bent's Fort. Contact the park for a bird list.

 

 

The bookstore has a variety of offerings

NPS Photo

Western National Park's Bookstore
The bookstore and trade goods store located at the rear of the fort provides a collection of a number of hard to find items. Adult and children books about western frontier, nature, and local history are available. Trades goods of the period, games, puzzles, videos and music CDs, and children books round out the offerings. Some items are definitely unique and usually hard to find. Call 719-384-2800 for assistance.