Fort Union National Monument

Fort Union
Exposed to wind, within a sweeping valley of short grass prairie, amid the swales of the Santa Fe Trail, lie the territorial-style adobe remnants of the region’s largest 1800s military fort. Between 1851 and 1891, Fort Union acted as an agent of political and cultural change throughout the Southwest.

Discover Fort Union National Monument

Fort Union photo

Step onto the windswept plains of northern New Mexico and explore the remnants of Fort Union, once the largest military post in the region. Established in 1851, this fort played a vital role in protecting travelers along the Santa Fe Trail and maintaining a military presence in the Southwest. Today, visitors can walk among the preserved adobe walls, follow wagon ruts from pioneers long past, and imagine life on the frontier. With its rich history, striking landscape, and deep ties to the Santa Fe Trail, Fort Union National Monument offers a fascinating glimpse into the American West.

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Bookstore with travel guides and souvenirs displayed on shelves.

Visit the WNP park store

The park store is found within the Fort Union Visitor Center. Shop collectibles, books, keepsakes, toys, and more designed to enhance your understanding of this important place. 

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Upcoming events

Oct 11 10:00 am – 11:00 am

Join us for an hour-long program on cannons, projectiles, muskets and rifles along with black powder firing demonstrations.

Nov 1 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Good stories don't have to be true! Join rangers to explore a peculiar tale of Fort Union around a campfire followed by a lantern tour. 90-minutes. Gates will open at 6:45 pm for tour participants.

Nov 8 10:00 am – 10:45 am

The tradition of storytelling around the campfire continues with your National Park Service! Experience this half-hour program of fire making along with historic tales, an intriguing story, or a spooky yarn along with a park ranger. Seating available...

Nov 15 10:00 am – 11:30 am

A 60- to 90-minute, 1-mile journey that enters the ruins, discussing history, fort preservation efforts, and the importance of concentrated impact. (Tour enters rough, unlevel terrain. Park-provided reflective vest required to be worn.)

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Since our founding in 1938, WNP has provided more than $162 million in aid to our partner parks to fund educational programs, initiatives, and scientific research.

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