Place

Wayside: The Prairie

Exhibit stand in large open grassy plain, bluff line on the horizon.
"The Prairie" Wayside

NPS

Quick Facts

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

Overland travelers usually departed from the back gate, which was located just behind where you are now standing. This was the take-off point to the wilderness, trains and gold fields beyond. The vast prairie lay before them.

In summer, Indian encampments could be seen nearby. Tepees dotted the landscape and smoke curled from cooking fires. 

Years after Fort Union ceased operations, the prairie gave way to railroads, hay fields and farming. Today, the native grasses have been restored through a restoration program. 

Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site

Last updated: February 6, 2021