Ancient fossils still lie hidden in the bold and bronzen buttes of Badlands National Park, a protected wilderness penetrated by hiking and biking trails.
Fort Union was established in 1851 as the guardian of the Santa Fe Trail. During it's forty-year history, three different forts were constructed close together. The third Fort Union was the largest in the American Southwest, and functioned as a military garrison, territorial arsenal, and military supply depot for the southwest. The largest visible network of Santa Fe Trail ruts can be seen here.
Hours + Fees
Hours:
Open daily except New Year’‘s Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
Winter Hours: Labor Day to Memorial Day 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Summer Hours: Memorial Day to Labor Day 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
From Albuquerque (156 miles), Santa Fe (94 miles) or Las Vegas, NM (28 miles) take I-25 north, exit 366 at Watrous, 8 miles on NM 161.
From Denver (313 miles), Colorado Springs (243 miles) or Raton (95 miles) take I-25 south, exit 366 at Watrous, 8 miles on NM 161.
Below are the Free Visitor Guides for Las Vegas (NM). More Visitor Guides are available in South Dakota. Click here to view them all!
Santa Fe North Central
Santa Fe
North CentralSanta Fe has a rich cultural history and used to be considered the capital for the Spanish "Kingdom of New Mexico". These days, visitors can enjoy the many museums, galleries and dining options available in this beautiful and historic city. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
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