Visiting Santa Fe Trail Historic Sites in Southeastern Colorado's High Plains

A green and red wooden wagon sits on a dirt ground in front of a light brown adobe building under a blue sky with scattered clouds. The wagon has large red spoked wheels and a green boxy carriage. The adobe building features a round tower-like structure on the left with small rectangular openings near the top and a longer, lower section to the right with similar openings. A dark bird walks on the ground near the wagon. In the background, green trees are visible on the left. — Outside Bent’s Old Fort NHS

Cutting through the High Plains of southeastern Colorado, the historic Santa Fe Trail was once a thriving commercial route. While Colorado’s iconic Rocky Mountains often steal the spotlight, the grasslands of the High Plains shouldn’t be overlooked. Here, you’ll find remnants of frontier forts, echoing boomtowns, and reminders of the complex and troublesome relationship between westward expansion and Native American nations. It’s a region filled with frontier history, waiting to be explored.

So get ready to learn about four historic sites that bring the story of the Santa Fe Trail to life in southeastern Colorado. You can visit them all on a two- to three-day road trip.

These places and the people associated with them share intertwined histories. But before we dive into the monuments, let’s take a moment to understand the region’s compelling history as it relates to the Santa Fe Trail.

Contents: Santa Fe Trail Historic Sites in Southeastern Colorado

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The Santa Fe Trail in Southeastern Colorado

The Santa Fe Trail was a legendary overland route that linked Missouri to Santa Fe beginning in 1821. Goods for trade made their way from Missouri and into New Mexico on two prairie routes. The first, the Cimarron Route, just barely touched the far southeastern corner of Colorado. The second, the Mountain Route, carved a path through the Arkansas River Valley following the north bank of the river.

A weathered gray stone monument stands in a field of dry grasses under a partly cloudy sky. Inscribed in bold, sans-serif lettering are the words "SANTA FE TRAIL," followed by "1822 - 1872." Below this, the inscription continues, "MARKED BY THE DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION AND THE STATE OF COLORADO 1908." The monument rests on a slightly lighter-colored stone base. In the blurred background, a line of trees marks the horizon. — Santa Fe Trail Marker outside Bent’s Old Fort

Although it began as a commercial trade route, the Mountain Route assumed significant military importance during the Mexican-American War. The trail became a vital pathway for the movement of troops and supplies. As the war ended and the West opened, the trail transformed into a national road. Now it was for adventurers of every stripe, including traders, gold seekers, and missionaries.

But by 1880, a railroad paralleling the route was completed, rapidly sidelining the Santa Fe Trail. Its bustling days were over. Yet even today, over 140 years after the Trail lost its significance, monuments from this era remain in southeastern Colorado and continue to inform and inspire casual tourists and history buffs alike.

The Santa Fe Trail Scenic and Historic Byway

In Colorado, the Mountain Route in southeastern Colorado is commemorated today as the Santa Fe Trail Scenic and Historic Byway. It spans 188 miles (302.5 km) through Prowers, Bent, Otero, and Las Animas counties. This designation highlights both the historical significance and the scenic beauty of the trail as it passes through southeastern Colorado.

The Byway follows the longer Santa Fe National Historic Trail, which extends from Missouri to New Mexico. Visitors can explore museums, historic sites, and even original segments of the trail.

A weathered wooden wagon wheel leans against a wooden post with a pink sign in a sunny, rural setting. The large, brown, spoked wheel rests on reddish-brown gravel. The pink sign attached to the post above the wheel has black lettering. To the right, a light brown, textured stone marker stands upright, featuring a circular sign that reads "SANTA FE TRAIL" in red letters around a white center, with "NATIONAL HISTORIC TRAIL" written below in smaller red letters. The background shows a dry, grassy field under a clear blue sky, with sparse trees visible in the distance. A white, low building with a flat roof is partially visible on the left side of the image. — Santa Fe National Historic Trail marker at Boggsville Historic Site

At Raton Pass near Trinidad, Colorado, and Raton, New Mexico, the Colorado Santa Fe Trail Scenic and Historic Byway connects to the similarly named Santa Fe Trail Scenic Byway, a 381-mile (613-km) route in New Mexico that continues the historic path toward Santa Fe.

A Note on the History of Colorado’s Santa Fe Trail Sites

The history of each of the four sites described below could easily fill volumes of encyclopedias! To keep this article manageable, I’ve distilled some of the most compelling details. If you’re eager to explore further, I’ve included several references (linked) to help you dive deeper into the fascinating legacy of the Santa Fe Trail in southeastern Colorado.

The Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site: A Place of Sorrow and Remembrance

One of the darkest events in U.S. frontier history unfolded in today’s southeastern Colorado on November 29, 1864. It became known as the Sand Creek Massacre. At dawn, a regiment under the command of Colonel John Chivington launched a surprise attack on a peaceful Cheyenne and Arapaho encampment. The soldiers brutally killed around 230 tribe members, 150 of them women, children, and elderly.

The National Register of Historic Places added the Sand Creek Massacre site in 2001, and the completed Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site (NHS) was inaugurated on April 28, 2007.

A brown sign that reads "Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site" stands in a vast, open landscape under a clear blue sky. The sign is supported by two weathered wooden beams that lean against a small, stacked stone structure. In front of the sign, a narrow, winding gravel path leads into the distance. The surrounding terrain is mostly dry, short grassland with a dirt road visible in the midground. A simple wire fence stretches across the landscape in the distance, disappearing towards the horizon. The scene conveys a sense of remoteness and historical significance. — Entrance of the Sand Creek Massacre NHS

Context of the Sand Creek Massacre

Commerce along the Santa Fe Trail meant increasing contact between the Plains tribes and settlers and traders moving goods over 900 miles (1448 km) of the trail between Missouri and New Mexico. Conflicts between Indigenous nations on the Great Plains and early Colorado settlers led to the 1861 Treaty of Fort Wise; however, flaws in the treaty and poor implementation meant that tensions continued to rise.

In 1864, Cheyenne sub-chief Ochinee (Lone Bear/One-Eye), father of Amache Ochinee Prowers of Boggsville, made peace offers to Major Edward Wynkoop at Fort Lyon. Wynkoop agreed to protect the tribes if the Cheyenne and Arapaho relocated to Sand Creek, a spot within their treaty-designated land.

Opposition to the Peace Efforts

Many, however, opposed peace with the Native Americans. Colonel John M. Chivington was known for his animosity toward the tribes and wanted to further his political ambitions through military action. He likely influenced Major Wynkoop’s removal, replacing him with Major Scott Anthony, who was more sympathetic to Chivington’s agenda.

As late as November 15, 1864, Anthony and Wynkoop met with Cheyenne and Arapaho leaders at Fort Lyon (formerly known as Fort Wise). They advised the tribes to await further instructions. A mere two weeks later, on November 28, Chivington arrived at the fort, blocked communication with the tribes, and led 675 troops overnight to the tribal encampment at Sand Creek.

At dawn on November 29, Chivington launched a surprise attack on the temporary camp despite visible signs of non-aggression, including an American flag. Among the dead was Ochinee (Amache Ochinee Prowers’s father). Some soldiers mutilated many of the corpses, keeping body parts as trophies.

Interpretive Sign at the Sand Creek Massacre NHS

Initially celebrated, the attack, later known as the Sand Creek Massacre, sparked outrage and was investigated by the government. Chivington resigned in early 1865. The massacre deeply damaged U.S.–Indigenous relations and escalated military presence on the plains.

To this day, it remains a harrowing moment in American history.

Honoring the Victims at Sand Creek Massacre NHS

The Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site was developed by the National Park Service (NPS) in consultation with the Northern and Southern Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. The Site holds sacred and spiritual significance for the Cheyenne and Arapaho people, serving as a place to honor the ancestors lost in the tragic event.

At this monument, the truth is laid bare. There is no glossing over the role the federal government played in the sordid violence and murder of the Cheyenne and Arapaho people at Sand Creek. Visitors can acknowledge the atrocity directly, honor the Cheyenne and Arapaho victims, and reflect on the consequences of betrayal and violence. The NPS indicated that the memorial would provide information to visitors to “assist in minimizing the chance of similar incidents in the future.”

The Visitor Center and Monument Hill

Start your visit at the modest visitor center, where you’ll find a bookstore. Then visit the outdoor visitor use area, thoughtfully curated with interpretive panels.

Two large trees with green leaves frame a sunny outdoor scene featuring historical markers. On the left, two framed information boards stand under the shade of a tree, supported by wooden posts and angled towards the viewer. To the right, another information panel rests on a low stone wall. In the background, a vast, dry, grassy field stretches towards the horizon under a clear blue sky. A faint outline of a distant hill or structure is visible on the horizon line. The scene is bathed in natural light, suggesting a peaceful and informative setting within a historical site. — Visitor Area at the Sand Creek Massacre NHS

From there, a short, reflective walk leads you to Monument Hill, with signs that provide further information. At the top, an overlook offers a solemn view of Big Sandy Creek, also known as Sand Creek.

This sacred site also includes a repatriation area, a respectful resting place for human remains and cultural artifacts of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes.

The Bluff Trail

From Monument Hill, the Bluff Trail stretches northwest along a ridge. As you walk, interpretive signs deepen your understanding of the massacre’s timeline and terrain. The quiet surroundings contrast with the violent events that unfolded here.

A round, black sign with white lettering reading "Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site" curves around the top and bottom edges, while "SILENCE & RESPECT" is prominently displayed in the center. The sign is mounted on a wooden post with a pink ribbon tied around the top, situated beside a dirt path. The path leads into a vast, dry, grassy field under a clear, bright blue sky. In the distance, a few small structures and a vehicle are visible on the horizon. The scene conveys a sense of solemnity and open space. — Grounds at the Sand Creek Massacre NHS

An AllTrails Map shows the trail to Monument Hill and the continuation of the Bluff Trail. The walk from Monument Hill to the end of the Bluff Trail covers approximately 1.2 miles (2 km).

The Section 36 Pullout

On the entrance road to the monument, there is a pullout with interpretive signs worth stopping at, either before or after your visit to the main visitor area. The signs tell the story of the Cheyenne and Arapaho journey to Sand Creek, as well as the soldiers’ overnight trek from Fort Lyon to the location. It’s humbling to look over the plains and imagine the scene in 1864, knowing the lasting impact of the massacre on Cheyenne and Arapaho communities.

A portion of an informational sign at the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site displays a map titled "Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site." The map shows the surrounding area with various landmarks and trails indicated. A blue square with the words "YOU ARE HERE" marks a specific location near Chief White Antelope Way and County Road W.

The map illustrates the approximate route of the "Indian Expedition March" towards Sand Creek, depicted by a thin line with arrowheads. It also shows Bent's New Fort, labeled in a circle encompassing the Indian Expedition route and Little Raven's Arapaho Camp near the Arkansas River. Kiowa and Lake Region are also marked on the map.

A legend in the lower left corner explains the symbols used, including markers for the Monument Hill. A compass rose indicating North is situated in the lower right corner of the map. The map provides a geographical context for the Sand Creek Massacre site. — Interpretive sign at Section 36 pullout

Practical Information for the Sand Creek Massacre NHS

Getting to the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site

The Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site is in Kiowa County in rural southeastern Colorado at the intersection of Chief White Antelope Way (County Road 54) and County Road “W”. It’s 23 miles (37 km) northeast of Eads, Colorado, and getting there includes driving at least 8 miles (12.9 km) on dirt roads.

I recommend following the directions to the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site on the official National Park Service website. Contact information is also available for questions regarding road conditions.

Hours and Fees at the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site

The Sand Creek Massacre NHS is open Thursday through Monday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, except on certain national holidays. The Historic Site is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. There is no entry fee for the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site.

The Sand Creek Massacre Visitor and Education Center in Eads, Colorado, is closed until further notice.

Kit Carson Memorial Chapel at Fort Lyon National Cemetery

Our next stop is the Kit Carson Memorial Chapel just outside the Fort Lyon National Cemetery near Las Animas, Colorado. Fort Lyon National Cemetery is next to Fort Lyon. But why is the Kit Carson Memorial Chapel here?

A small, charming chapel, the Kit Carson Memorial Chapel, made of light brown stone with a steep red roof and a white cross on top stands nestled among large green trees under a clear blue sky. The chapel has a pointed steeple and a dark wooden double door at the entrance, flanked by narrow windows. A concrete walkway leads up to the chapel, bordered by a low, decorative black metal fence on the right. The surrounding area features a mix of dry, grassy fields and green lawns, with scattered trees providing shade. In the distance, hints of houses and a road can be seen, suggesting a peaceful, rural or suburban setting. The sunlight casts shadows of the trees and the chapel onto the ground. — Front view of the Kit Carson Memorial Chapel

About Kit Carson

In 1826, at just 16 years old, Christopher H. “Kit” Carson escaped his apprenticeship as a saddle maker in Franklin, Missouri—the eastern end of the Santa Fe Trail—and joined a caravan heading to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Carson traveled extensively along the Santa Fe Trail, and in time, he became a renowned frontiersman, Army scout, and guide.

About Fort Lyon

Fort Lyon served as a key military outpost for the Mountain Branch of the Santa Fe Trail in southeastern Colorado. Troops from the fort escorted wagon trains and patrolled the trail to help maintain safe passage. Fort Lyon, originally named Fort Wise, was established in 1860 near Bent’s New Fort and the Arkansas River. This is the same Fort Lyon that played a role in the Sand Creek Massacre. After this location was flooded in 1866, Fort Lyon relocated 20 miles (32 km) upstream to an area near Las Animas.

A stone entrance gate under a bright sky features the Seal of the State of Colorado prominently displayed on the left pillar. The circular seal has a colorful design with the words "STATE OF COLORADO" around the top and "1876" at the bottom. Below the seal, a smaller white sign reads "WELCOME TO FT LYON."

On the right stone pillar, a weathered bronze plaque is affixed, reading "VETERANS ADMINISTRATION HOSPITAL FORT LYON COLORADO." The stone of the pillars is light brown and textured, showing signs of age and weathering.

Beyond the gate, a glimpse of green grass, trees, and a brick building with a fence can be seen. The sunlight casts shadows on the stone pillars and the surrounding area. The scene suggests the entrance to a historical or significant site associated with the State of Colorado and a Veterans Administration hospital. — Entrance gate to the Fort Lyon Cemetery

The Origin of the Fort Lyon National Cemetery

The U.S. Army abandoned Fort Lyon in 1897, but in 1906, the U.S. Navy began using it as a tuberculosis hospital. The Navy also established a cemetery as part of the hospital complex. After being overseen by various government agencies for decades, the cemetery became part of the National Cemetery System in 1973. It remains active and is managed by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. The National Register of Historic Places added it to their listings in 2017.

Origin of the Kit Carson Memorial Chapel

Kit Carson lived in nearby Boggsville, now the Boggsville Historic Site, with his family in his final years. When he fell ill for the last time, he went to nearby Fort Lyon for treatment. He died there in Surgeon General Tilton’s Quarters on May 23, 1868. The building was subsequently used as a blacksmith shop, a meeting hall, and a museum.

In 1959, the Veterans Administration created the Kit Carson Memorial Chapel using stones taken from the Surgeon General’s Quarters building, which had fallen into disrepair. After the Colorado Department of Corrections took ownership of Fort Lyon in 2001 and turned it into the Fort Lyon Correctional Facility, the Kit Carson Memorial Chapel was relocated to the entrance of Fort Lyon.

The Kit Carson Memorial Chapel at Fort Lyon National Cemetery. A small, rustic chapel constructed from light brown stone with a dark shingle roof stands under a clear blue sky, partially shaded by large trees with green leaves. The chapel features a steep, red-trimmed gable roof with a simple white cross mounted on the front. A dark wooden door serves as the entrance, and narrow rectangular windows are visible on the side. A low, black metal fence encloses a small area in front of the chapel. The ground surrounding the building is a mix of dry grass and dirt. In the blurred background, a flat, open field with sparse vegetation and distant houses can be seen. The sunlight casts shadows from the trees onto the chapel and the ground. — Side view of the Kit Carson Memorial Chapel

Unfortunately, perhaps due to its proximity to a State Prison, visitor access to the Chapel dwindled, and it became dilapidated. However, there was sufficient interest to generate funds for the renovation of the Chapel and reopen it in 2007. This renovation included refurbished stained-glass windows and new flooring installed by prisoners at the Fort Lyon Correctional Facility.

Visiting the Kit Carson Memorial Chapel

The Kit Carson Memorial Chapel stands at a quiet edge of the Fort Lyon National Cemetery. The Chapel is locked and can only be admired from the outside. (However, it may be possible to view the interior through the John W. Rawlings Heritage Center & Museum in Las Animas.)

This modest building, constructed from repurposed stone, features no elaborate ornamentation and exudes a tranquil ambiance. The plain wooden entrance contrasts with its sharply pitched roof, a nod to Gothic Revival architecture. A slender white steeple tops the Chapel, and a red-painted gable with white trim on the eaves adds a quaint contrast.

Kit Carson Memorial Chapel at Fort Lyon National Cemetery. A charming stone chapel with a steep, red-trimmed roof and a slender, pointed steeple topped with a cross stands under a bright blue sky, framed by the leafy branches of mature trees. The chapel's walls are constructed from irregularly shaped, light brown stones. A dark wooden double door provides the entrance, and narrow windows are visible on the sides of the building. The roof is a mix of dark shingles and red painted wood. The surrounding ground is dry and grassy. The scene is bathed in sunlight, casting shadows and highlighting the textures of the stone and wood. The overall impression is one of a peaceful and historic place of worship. — Side view of the Kit Carson Memorial Chapel

Walk around the side, and you’ll notice narrow stained-glass windows—touches of beauty that hint at the reverence with which the building was designed and restored.

Walking around the Chapel doesn’t take long, but if you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself lingering. Something about its quiet presence invites you to sit, reflect, and take it all in. I was especially drawn to the story behind this building, the thoughtful simplicity of its design, and the care that’s gone into preserving it for curious visitors like us.

What Happened to the Fort Lyon Building?

And what about Fort Lyon? It still stands, but not as a monument or museum. Instead, it’s now home to the Fort Lyon Supportive Residential Community. This innovative program offers transitional housing and comprehensive support services for individuals experiencing homelessness, many of whom are also recovering from substance use disorders.

What was once a military outpost, a hospital, and a prison now serves as a haven for healing and hope. This new chapter in Fort Lyon’s history as a place of safety recalls its original mission of providing safe passage for travelers on the Santa Fe Trail.

Practical Information for the Kit Carson Memorial Chapel

Getting there: From Highway 50 near Las Animas, turn south on Highway 183 and travel about 1 mile (1.6 km) to the entrance of Fort Lyon. The Kit Carson Memorial chapel is past the Fort Lyon gate at the junction of Gate Road and Cemetery Road.

To view the Chapel interior, inquire at the John W. Rawlings Heritage Center & Museum

in Las Animas. Email: bentctyheritage “at” gmail dot com. This museum gets good reviews for its insight into the local history of the Santa Fe Trail.

Boggsville Historic Site: Permanent Settlement in Southeastern Colorado

Just a few miles south of Fort Lyon lies the Boggsville Historic Site—an essential stop for understanding the broader story of Kit Carson, Fort Lyon, and the development of southeastern Colorado.

Boggsville was a pioneer settlement established in 1866 along a side route of the Santa Fe Trail. At the time, it was about three miles (4.8 km) above the Purgatoire River’s confluence with the Arkansas River. Today, the closest town to Boggsville is Las Animas.

Before the settlers arrived, Native American tribes used the open plains between the two rivers here for seasonal encampments. Cheyenne, Arapaho, Kiowa, and to a lesser extent, Comanche continued to frequent the area as trading centers like Boggsville and Bent’s Old Fort (described below) were built.

Boggsville boomed due to traffic on the Santa Fe Trail and commerce with nearby Fort Lyon for only about seven years before new railroad lines bypassed the town, changing the way business and trade were conducted.

This is the Prowers House at Boggsville Historic Site. A two-story, light yellow house with a brown shingle roof stands in a grassy field dotted with large, leafy trees under a clear blue sky. The house has a covered porch supported by white columns running along the front of the first floor, with several evenly spaced windows on both the ground and upper levels. A brick chimney rises from the left side of the roof. A dark doorway is located in the center of the first floor, leading onto the porch. The surrounding field is dry and golden, suggesting late summer or early autumn. The large trees cast shadows on the lawn. In the far right, a glimpse of a white tent-like structure can be seen. — The Prowers House at Boggsville Historic Site

The Boggsville Historic Site has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1986 and is also designated as a National Historic District. It’s well worth a visit because of its significance in several categories, including architecture, agriculture, exploration and settlement, commerce, transportation, and Hispanic ethnic heritage.

Visiting Boggsville Historic Site

Upon arrival at the Boggsville Historic Site, a friendly docent offered me a golf cart tour. My knowledgeable guide recounted the history of Boggsville and its founding pioneers. We began the tour by driving through a short lane lined with small cottonwood trees. Once a stately entrance to the village, it’s barely recognizable as such today.

Boggsville Historic Site is undergoing restoration. While it’s absolutely worth visiting, it will be even better once improvements can be made to the grounds.

The Territorial Architecture of Boggsville

The main structures at the Boggsville Historic Site are two restored houses: the Boggs House and the Prowers House.

The Boggs House was built in 1866 by Boggsville founder Thomas O. Boggs for himself and his wife, Rumalda Maria Luna Bent Boggs —a member of the prominent Bent family (stepdaughter of Charles Bent). She inherited the land through Mexican land grants.
The Prowers House, built in 1867–68, belonged to John Wesley Prowers. Prowers supplied Fort Lyon with food and livestock, and his large home also functioned as a school, store, and county office.

The Boggs and Prowers Houses are prime examples of Territorial architecture. Constructed of thick adobe brick, each house originally had a U-shaped Hispanic floor plan. The houses also featured Greek Revival style details, such as the windows and transoms.

I visited Boggsville on an unseasonably hot fall day, but the adobe houses remained impressively cool inside, even with their doors and windows open.

The Prowers House at Boggsville Historic Site. A long, single-story building with a light brown exterior and a shingle roof stands under a clear blue sky. A covered porch supported by white columns runs along the front of the building, providing shade. Several evenly spaced windows with white frames line the front facade. A brick chimney rises from the roof on the right side. A dark doorway is located centrally under the porch. Wooden benches are placed along the porch. A large tree with green leaves stands to the left of the building, casting shadows on the ground. The ground in front of the building is a mix of dirt and sparse grass. The overall scene suggests a historic building in a rural or open setting. — The Boggs House at Boggsville Historic Site

Agricultural Significance of Boggsville

Thanks to Boggs, Prowers, and other early settlers, Boggsville was the first large-scale agricultural development in southeastern Colorado. In 1867, residents of Boggsville dug (by hand) the Tarbox Ditch, a seven-mile (11.2 km) irrigation canal. The Tarbox Ditch brought water from the Purgatoire River to cultivate over 1000 acres (404 ha) of crops, including potatoes, corn, wheat, alfalfa, and vegetables. Fort Lyon bought a large portion of these products.

Upon relocating to Boggsville, John Wesley Prowers continued the cattle ranching business he started in 1861. He was the first settler to drive cattle in Colorado and introduced Hereford cattle to the area. By 1881, he had 15,000 head of cattle.

A rusty, antique farm machine dominates the foreground, set against a backdrop of a grassy field, scattered trees with green and yellow leaves, and a clear blue sky. The machine is complex, with various metal parts, gears, springs, and a hopper-like structure. Its weathered appearance suggests it has been sitting outdoors for a long time. In the middle ground, another smaller, rusty piece of farm equipment with large wheels is visible. The background features more trees and a hint of a wooden fence or structure in the distance. The bright sunlight casts shadows on the ground, highlighting the textures of the old machinery and the natural landscape. — Antique agricultural equipment at Boggsville Historic Site

Other Notable Boggsville Residents

Boggs’s marriage to Rumalda Bent was an example of a late 1800s trend in which Anglo men married into high-class Mexican families for their valuable assets, including land and networking opportunities.

Boggsville also stands out for its other intercultural marriages and notable women.

Kit Carson spent his final months here with his wife, Josefa (Rumalda’s niece), before dying at Fort Lyon in 1868. Their Boggsville cabin was destroyed in a 1921 flood.
Amache Ochinee Prowers, wife of John Wesley Prowers, was a Cheyenne woman whose father died in the Sand Creek Massacre. She used the reparations land awarded to her by the U.S. government to expand their ranch. She also served as a mediator between Native, Mexican, and European American communities.

A weathered gray stone monument stands in a field of dry, golden grass under a clear blue sky. A tall, mature tree with a rough, dark trunk is positioned to the left of the monument, partially obscuring it. A bronze plaque is affixed to the face of the stone, bearing an inscription that includes the name "CARSON." In the background, a line of tall, green trees stretches across the horizon. The landscape is open and rural, suggesting a historical marker in a natural setting. The sunlight illuminates the scene, casting a slight shadow from the tree onto the monument. — Marker for Kit Carson’s original gravesite at Boggsville National Historic Site (Carson is now buried in Taos, New Mexico)

The Decline of Boggsville

Despite its early success, Boggsville began to decline in 1873 when the Kansas Pacific Railroad bypassed the settlement in favor of the nearby town of Las Animas. Prowers relocated to Las Animas in 1873 or 1874, and Boggs moved to New Mexico in 1877 due to land disputes. By the early 20th century, Boggsville was largely abandoned, but the land continued to be used as a farm and ranch for several decades.

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A brightly lit, historical one-room schoolhouse with wooden floors and white walls. Two long, light-colored wooden desks with benches face two black chalkboards on the left wall. On the first chalkboard, white chalk writing is partially visible. The second chalkboard displays a neatly written list of names and numbers in white chalk. A small wooden table with a white bowl and other items sits to the left of the second chalkboard.

In the back of the room, a wooden teacher's desk and chair are positioned in front of a window that lets in bright daylight. A framed portrait of a man hangs on the wall above the desk. To the right, a vintage, ornate wood-burning stove stands on the wooden floor. Another framed picture is visible on the wall above the stove. A doorway in the back of the room shows a coat hanging on a hook. The ceiling has exposed wooden beams painted white. — Restored schoolroom in the Prowers House at Boggsville Historic Site

Practical Information about Boggsville Historic Site

Take Highway 101 south from Las Animas for about 2 miles (3.2 km) and follow the signs to Boggsville Historic Site.

There is no entry fee for the Boggsville Historic Site.

Boggsville is open from spring to fall, Tuesdays through Saturdays. For current information, call 719-456-1358 or email: boggsville “at” gmail dot com.

Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site

No journey through this region is complete without a stop at Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site (NHS), which features a reconstructed adobe fort from the Santa Fe Trail era.

The Fort area became a National Historic Site under the NPS on June 3, 1960. It became a National Historic Landmark later that year on December 19, 1960. The fort itself was reconstructed in 1976 and is open to the public today.

The interior of a room at Bent's Old Fort is filled with a diverse collection of historical objects, meticulously arranged on wooden shelves and hanging from the ceiling and walls. On the left side, shelves hold various items, including ceramic jars, metal bowls, papers, shoes, and small figurines. Below these shelves, wooden crates and rolled-up textiles are stacked.

Above, numerous metal pots, pans, and utensils hang from hooks attached to the ceiling. In the center of the room, more shelves display hats, tools, boxes, and a sword. To the right, boots, moccasins, and beaded necklaces dangle from above, while several red and blue military-style jackets hang against the far wall. A small wooden barrel sits on a lower shelf, and a large metal pot with a lid rests on the floor in the right foreground. The room has a rustic feel, illuminated by natural light filtering in from an unseen source, highlighting the textures and variety of the historical artifacts. This scene offers a glimpse into the daily life and supplies of Bent's Old Fort..

Bent’s Old Fort: A Hub for Trade

In 1833, William and Charles Bent, along with Ceran St. Vrain, constructed the original Bent’s Fort as a significant trading post for their company, Bent, St. Vrain & Company. The goal was to transport manufactured goods from St. Louis to Santa Fe and trade with the Southern Cheyenne, Arapaho, and Plains Indian tribes for buffalo furs.

At the time, Bent’s Fort was the only significant American settlement between Missouri and the Mexican border. It served not only as a commercial hub but also as a diplomatic crossroads. Travelers could buy supplies, food, and water, and even have their wagons repaired. Kit Carson worked here as a hunter, and in 1846, the fort became a staging area for the U.S. Army during the Mexican–American War.

Demise and Reconstruction of Bent’s Old Fort

Bent’s Fort was abandoned by William Bent in 1849 for numerous reasons. For example, there was a cholera epidemic among the Plains Indians. Personal tragedies also played a role, including the murder of his brother Charles Bent. An unsuccessful attempt to sell the fort to the U.S. government led Bent to remove his goods and partially destroy the building by setting it on fire. The ruins were used for various purposes until they had crumbled into rubble by 1910.

The interior courtyard of Bent's Old Fort, featuring adobe buildings with wooden supports, a central wooden structure, and the American flag flying atop a tower under a partly cloudy sky. — Courtyard of Bent’s Old Fort NHS

In 1852, Bent relocated his operations to a new site near Big Timbers, located near modern-day Lamar, Colorado. Bent built what became Bent’s New Fort on the bluffs above Big Timbers in the fall of 1853. In 1860, he sold this structure to the U.S. Army, which, with additional buildings, established Fort Wise (later Fort Lyon) in the same year. Bent’s New Fort no longer exists, but a Historical Marker stands at the site.

Reconstructing Bent’s Old Fort in 1976 necessitated extensive archaeological work, which led to the discovery of over 30,000 artifacts and historical records. Although not all details were available, researchers utilized engineering plans and eyewitness accounts to inform the design.

Visiting Bent’s Old Fort

The Gate of Bent’s Old Fort

The stone gateway at Bent’s Old Fort Gate marks the original entrance to the roadway to the Fort. It was built by the La Junta Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). DAR bought and preserved the land here until 1954, when it was sold to the Colorado State Historical Society. The National Park Service took ownership in 1960. Without the foresight of the DAR, Bent’s Old Fort NHS might not exist today! There are two historical markers, also placed by DAR, near the gate: one to mark the site of the fort, and one to mark the route of the Santa Fe Trail.

A rustic stone archway with the words "BENT'S OLD FORT" painted in yellow on a dark blue background spans the entrance to a historical site. The archway is constructed from irregularly shaped, brown and gray stones. Through the arch, a wide, open landscape stretches out, featuring dry, golden grasses and a line of green trees in the middle ground. In the distance, a large, low structure made of light brown adobe-like material can be seen. Two stone markers with engraved text stand in front of the archway, partially obscured by shadows. The sky above is partly cloudy with patches of blue. The scene conveys a sense of entering a significant historical location within a vast, natural setting. — Gate marking the original entrance to Bent’s Old Fort

Note: The DAR has placed multiple markers along the Santa Fe Trail in Colorado. Another marker close to Bent’s Old Fort is at the end of the Red Shin Trail in nearby John Martin Reservoir State Park.

Inside Bent’s Old Fort

Stepping inside the reconstructed Bent’s Old Fort is a window into frontier life. The adobe structure is built around a central plaza and includes a trading room, kitchen, blacksmith shop, storerooms, a powder magazine, a well room, living quarters, and a livestock corral. Ceran St. Vrain’s quarters were located on the second floor, although that level has been closed for safety reasons since 2023.

A dimly lit room features a collection of historical artifacts arranged to depict a scene from the past within Bent's Old Fort. A dark wooden drop-leaf table stands against a white wall, adorned with various items including quill pens, inkwells, a small beaded bag, a pipe, and a wooden bowl. A fringed garment or textile is draped over the edge of the table.

Two simple wooden chairs are positioned at the table. The chair on the left has a fringed pouch or bag hanging from its back. The chair on the right is draped with a light brown garment and has a decorated pouch resting on it.

On the floor, a large brown fur hide dominates the foreground. Several smaller items are scattered on the hide, including a smooth, light-colored stone, a pair of beaded moccasins, and a partially visible beaded and fringed textile.

In the background, against the right wall, stand a few metal implements, including what appears to be a branding iron and a metal container. A simple clay pot rests on the floor near the chair on the right. The overall ambiance suggests a re-creation of a living or working space from the 19th century fur trade era. — Furnished room at Bent’s Old Fort NHS

While once a center for immersive living history programs, these demonstrations have been scaled back. Nevertheless, each room is furnished with period-appropriate materials, providing a realistic glimpse into 19th-century life at the Fort.

Hiking at Bent’s Old Fort NHS

A two-mile (3.2 km) loop trail surrounds the fort and follows the nearby Arkansas River. It’s a peaceful walk with opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife sightings. The trail is marked on AllTrails and is accessible for most visitors.

Practical Information for Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site

⚠️⚠️The fort at Bent’s Old Fort Historic Site is temporarily closed due to damage caused by a massive snowfall in November of 2024. Numerous safety hazards must be cleared.
The Fort grounds and trails are open.

The official park address is 35110 State Highway 194 E., La Junta, CO. The official website for Bent’s Old Fort NHS gives detailed driving directions from La Junta and Las Animas.

A 1/4 mile (1,275 feet, 402 m) paved trail that connects the parking area to Fort’s entrance gate.

The park grounds are open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. every day, except on certain national holidays.

Unless you have an annual pass, the entrance fee to Bent’s Old Fort is $10.

Where to Stay in Southeastern Colorado

Lamar, Colorado, makes an excellent home base for exploring the historic sites of southeastern Colorado. Look for the Santa Fe Trail Marker in Lamar Big Timbers Museum Interpretive Park (at the intersection of Scenic U.S. 50/287 and State Highway 196). This marker is one of those placed by DAR to preserve the memory of the Trail.

gray stone monument marking the Santa Fe Trail (1822-1872), commemorated by the Daughters of the American Revolution in Lamar, Colorado in 1906. — Santa Fe Trail Marker in north Lamar, Colorado

Lamar has plentiful gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, and hotels. You’ll enjoy a comfortable stay in Lamar while you plan visits to the area’s historic and scenic sites.

Consider the recently renovated Historic Cow Palace Inn, which features the Tavern 1301 restaurant on-site, for accommodations.

Across the street, the Days Inn offers modern comforts, including in-room coffee, a microwave, and a mini-fridge, at a budget-friendly price.

Use the map and links below to book your stay and start planning your journey through southeastern Colorado’s Santa Fe Trail historic sites.

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Santa Fe Trail Historic Sites in Southeastern Colorado: Pin It for Later

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Conclusion: Reflect and Remember

Each of the Sand Creek Massacre NHS, the Kit Carson Memorial Chapel, the Boggsville Historic Site, and Bent’s Old Fort NHS reveals a facet of life in the Santa Fe Trail era in southeastern Colorado. From frontier trade to intercultural exchange to early agricultural innovation, the southeastern corner of Colorado offers a chance to engage with the past.

While the Santa Fe Trail vanished over 145 years ago, its impact on shaping the American West is evident in the lives of figures such as Chief Ochinee, Kit Carson, William and Charles Bent, and John and Amache Ochinee Prowers, as well as their associated monuments.

Visiting Santa Fe Trail Historic Sites in Southeastern Colorado’s High Plains

The Santa Fe Trail in Southeastern Colorado

The Santa Fe Trail Scenic and Historic Byway