Last updated: March 5, 2025
Thing to Do
Hiking along the Arkansas River
NPS/D. Ocheltree
Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site offers hikers access to the reconstructed fort and historic grounds. Multiple opportunities for bird watching exist along the trail system. Visitors can enjoy meandering beside the Arkansas River among the grasslands and cottonwood trees year round. The wetlands provide cover and habitat for several local and migratory bird species such as ring-necked pheasant, black rails, snow geese, American coot, red-winged black birds, among others. Interpretive wayside panels are dispersed throughout the length of the trail and highlight the importance of the Arkansas River's ecosystem to the communities living near Bent's Fort nearly two hundred years ago. The loop trail can be accessed at either the visitor parking area or at the gate installed on the southside of the fort structure.
Details
Duration
30-90 Minutes
Activity
Hiking
Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site offers hikers access to the reconstructed fort and provides opportunities for bird watching and enjoying the scenery of the grasslands and wetlands. The grasslands, the Arkansas River and the marsh are home to several species of birds.
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.
Location
Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
The mostly level hiking trail is paved and accessible for a 1/4 mile (1,275 feet) walk each way from the visitor parking lot to the reconstructed fort. The rest of the trail is dirt and gravel. The total distance of the big trail loop (including the paved section) is 1.75 miles.
