NPS Ranger ProgramsRanger Programs will be offered Daily at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm from Memorial Day through Labor Day, depending on staffing levels.Join a Ranger Program to learn more about the people and activities at Bent's Old Fort in the 1840's. Groups need reservations 719-383-5026. Ranger Programs are not available during special events. 
NPS Self-Guided TourTake a self-guided tour of the fort and discover the role the fort played in opening the west. A self-guided tour booklet is available. Interpreters dressed in period clothing are available to answer any questions. 
NPS Evening Candlelight Tours December 2 & 3, 2022Have you ever wanted to experience Bent's Old Fort at night by candlelight? This is your chance. Evening Candlelight Tours will be offered on December 2 and 3, 2022. The Evening Candlelight Tour provides participants with a tour of the fort’s rooms where living history staff and volunteers will provide a view into the lives of the fort workers, Plains Indians, travelers, soldiers, and Mexican families who were at Bent’s Old Fort in the 1830s and 1840s. Please see schedule and reservation information below.
Tour ReservationsThis event is only open to those with reservations made through Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. There will be no tickets available for purchase on the nights of the event. A $10 per person fee will be charged for everyone participating on the special tour, including children and seniors. Park passes are not accepted as payment for these special tours. There are no refunds. The first day to make a reservation for this event will be November 2, 2022. No shuttle services are available. Participants must be able to walk the ¼ mile paved, level trail to travel between the parking lot and the fort and be able to stand and walk the entire time of the tour. 
NPS Special EventsThe Calendar lists the Special Events at Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site each year. Ranger Programs, Self-Guided Tours and Documentary FilmA 1/4 mile (1,275 feet) 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. Ranger programs are not available during special events. Requests for ranger programs can be reserved by calling (719) 383-5026.
NPS Bent's Old Fort Hiking TrailVisitors 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.
NPS Photo Western National Park's BookstoreThe 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. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Last updated: October 18, 2022