10-30 Minutes
Plaza Access in the Fort
Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site
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. Entry into the reconstructed fort is limited to the central plaza, except on guided tours. For your safety, respect all closures and restrictions. Guided tours provide access into additional areas.
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. Entry into the reconstructed fort is limited to the central plaza, except on guided tours. For your safety, respect all closures and restrictions. Guided tours provide access into additional areas. Access to the reconstructed fort is restricted due to safety issues stemming from nearly 50 years of use and deficiencies in the 1970s design and construction of the Fort. Park staff conducted stabilization work in the spring of 2025 and continue to monitor the condition of the structure for further change. A water fountain and public restrooms are located at the visitor parking area. The reconstructed fort does not have these services available currently due to safety restrictions. Learn more about guided tours Learn more about the 1976 reconstructed fort Operating hours and seasons
Tags
Self-Guided Tours - WalkingArcheologyArchitecture and BuildingColonization and SettlementEnslavementExplorers and ExpeditionsHispanic American HeritageLatino American HeritageNative American HeritageMexican WarWestward Expansion
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Details
Duration
10-30 Minutes
Fees Apply
No
Seasons
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility
Parking and Wheelchair Use Accessibility parking is available at the visitor parking lot. There is a paved pathway, 1,275 feet in length, from the parking lot to the fort that is hard-surfaced and wheelchair accessible. Fort Accessibility Most of the first floor of the fort is wheelchair accessible, with soft surfaces. Visitors with accessibility needs are asked to arrive thirty minutes in advance or contact the park to arrange accomodations, if needed. Service Animals Service animals are allowed anywhere in the park when kept 25 yards or more away from fort livestock.
Pets
Yes — Pets are permitted on trails, and must be leashed at all times, kept close at hand and away from fort livestock. Pets are allowed inside the fort plaza only. Learn more about our pet policy.
Reservations
No