National Historic Site · CO
The National Park Service lists 7 things to do at Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site. 3 have no extra fee, 7 need no reservation, and 6 allow pets. Each listing links to the full NPS page. Data is from the NPS snapshot of Oct 28, 2026.
Updated · NPS Data API
Upon your arrival at the fort, request a Junior Ranger booklet from a park ranger. Tour the fort and grounds while completing the booklet according to your skill level. Take your completed book to a park ranger to receive a Junior Ranger Badge.
Year-round Fee applies Pets allowed
Birdwatching can be a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy. Seventy-two species of birds are currently documented at Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site.
Year-round Fee applies Pets allowed
Take a tour with a Park Ranger to learn more about Bent's Old Fort. Tours are limited to fifteen participants and will explore the historic use of the site and the reconstruction of the fort in the 1970s.
45-55 Minutes Year-round Pets allowed
Visitors can hike a 1.75 mile trail that winds its way through the cottonwood trees alongside the wetlands and the Arkansas River. Interpretive exhibit panels explain the further significance of this important river ecosystem.
30-90 Minutes Year-round Fee applies Pets allowed
The public is invited inside the reconstruction of Bent’s Old Fort, entering through the zaguan gate and into the plaza. Park Rangers will be present to explain the features of the fort and its 20th century reconstruction.
10-30 Minutes Year-round Pets allowed
The entrance to the reconstructed fort is gained from the one-quarter mile paved pathway extending from the shade shelter to the fort doors. The pathway is wheelchair accessible; however, the perimeter and interior flooring of the fort plaza is loose sand.
3-15 Minutes Year-round Fee applies Pets allowed
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The park store is operated by Western National Parks, an official non-profit partner of the National Park Service dedicated to supporting the educational mission of Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site.
Year-round
Check current alerts and closures, entrance fees and operating hours for Bent's Old Fort. Programs and tours can change with the season or be cancelled on short notice — confirm on the NPS page before you plan around one.
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