Last updated: August 12, 2025
Thing to Do
Plaza Access in the Fort
NPS Photo
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
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
Details
Duration
10-30 Minutes
Activity
Self-Guided Tours - Walking
Pets Allowed
Yes with Restrictions
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.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
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.
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.