Fort Union National Monument

Fort Union National Monument is located in northeast New Mexico, about 35 miles north of Las Vegas and 24 miles north of Interstate 25. It sits on the Santa Fe Trail, a historic trade and transportation route connecting Missouri and Santa Fe during the 19th century.

The national monument preserves and interprets the remains of two military forts, which played a crucial role in the settlement and development of the western United States. Fort Union was initially established in 1851 as a military post to protect American interests in the region and to provide a supply hub for other military outposts. It served as a logistical center for troops, goods, and commerce for over 40 years.

The historical significance of Fort Union is tied to its strategic location along the Santa Fe Trail and its impact on westward expansion. The fort witnessed various military campaigns, including the Civil War, when it changed hands between Confederate and Union forces multiple times. However, it gradually became obsolete with the advent of the railroad in the late 19th century, and by 1891, the fort was abandoned.

Today, Fort Union National Monument offers visitors the opportunity to explore the preserved ruins of the fort. The main fort compound contains remnants of adobe walls, barracks, officers' quarters, and other structures. Interpretive exhibits and displays provide a glimpse into the daily life of soldiers stationed at the fort.

Exploring the fort's grounds and taking a self-guided tour are among the popular activities for visitors. The National Park Service also offers ranger-led programs and demonstrations during the summer season, providing insights into the fort's history and significance. Additionally, the monument features trails that allow visitors to explore the surrounding landscape and to appreciate the region's natural beauty.

Nearby attractions include Las Vegas, a historic town known for its Victorian-style architecture, where visitors can explore art galleries, museums, and charming shops. The nearby Pecos National Historical Park, located 25 miles south of Fort Union, offers further insights into the area's rich history, including the remains of Pecos Pueblo, a Native American village. Outdoor enthusiasts can also venture into nearby state and national parks, such as Storrie Lake State Park, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking.

Overall, Fort Union National Monument is a significant historical site that provides a window into the past, shedding light on the Santa Fe Trail and the military's role in westward expansion. Visitors can explore the ruins, learn about the fort's history, and immerse themselves in the vibrant surroundings of New Mexico's northeast region.

Fort Union National Monument is situated in northeastern New Mexico, encompassing an area of extraordinary historical importance. Nestled in the fertile Moreno Valley, the monument is strategically positioned at the confluence of the Mora and Sapello Rivers, making it an ideal location for a military stronghold during the mid-19th century. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes of rolling prairies, verdant meadows, and majestic mountains, the monument showcases the natural beauty of this region. The geographic significance extends beyond its stunning vistas, as Fort Union National Monument conveniently lies at the junction of major trade and transportation routes, both historical and modern, establishing its prominence as a crucial economic hub throughout its existence.

Address & Contact

3115 NM Highway 161
Watrous, NM 87753
Driving Directions
Phone: 505-425-8025
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Fort Union National Monument would be during the months of May through September. During this time, the average maximum temperatures range from 69°F to 82°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation during these months varies between 1.8 in to 4.5 in, ensuring a relatively dry visit.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Fort Union National Monument are: Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Living History Historic Weapons Demonstration

Topics

Learn about these topics at Fort Union National Monument: Archeology Westward Expansion Military US Army Forts Wars and Conflicts Civil War Indian and Frontier Wars Ruins Medicine Hospital Hispanic American Heritage

Visitor Centers

Fort Union National Monument Visitor Center

The Visitor Center is currently open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Handicapped parking spaces for standard sized vehicles are available in the Visitor Center parking area. Several "oversized" parking spaces in the parking lot can accommodate campers, buses, and large RV's.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Fort Union National Monument Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Fort Union National Monument

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Fort Union National Monument

Days Inn by Wyndham Las Vegas

Located in Las Vegas (East Las Vegas), Days Inn by Wyndham Las Vegas is within a 5-minute drive of Gene Torres Golf Course and City of Las Vegas Museum. Featured amenities include a computer station, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2000 N Grand Ave, Las Vegas, New Mexico 87701
Web: Link

Comfort Inn Las Vegas New Mexico

With a stay at Comfort Inn Las Vegas New Mexico in Las Vegas (East Las Vegas), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Gene Torres Golf Course and City of Las Vegas Museum. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-out. A train station pick-up service is provided at no charge, and self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 2500 N Grand Ave, Las Vegas, New Mexico 87701
Web: Link

Super 8 by Wyndham Las Vegas

With a stay at Super 8 by Wyndham Las Vegas in Las Vegas (East Las Vegas), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Gene Torres Golf Course and City of Las Vegas Museum. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2029 N Hwy 85, Las Vegas, New Mexico 87701
Web: Link

Best Western Plus Montezuma Inn & Suites

With a stay at Best Western Plus Montezuma Inn & Suites in Las Vegas (East Las Vegas), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Gene Torres Golf Course and City of Las Vegas Museum. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2020 N Grand Avenue, Las Vegas, New Mexico 87701
Web: Link

Regal Motel in Las Vegas, New Mexico

With a stay at Regal Motel in Las Vegas, New Mexico in Las Vegas (East Las Vegas), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Gene Torres Golf Course and City of Las Vegas Museum. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1809 North Grand Avenue, Las Vegas, New Mexico 87701
Web: Link

Budget Inn

Located in Las Vegas (East Las Vegas), Budget Inn is within a 15-minute walk of City of Las Vegas Museum and Gene Torres Golf Course. Featured amenities include express check-out, a 24-hour front desk, and coffee/tea in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1216 GRAND AVENUE, LAS VEGAS, NM 87701, Las Vegas, New Mexico 87701
Web: Link

Sunshine Motel

Located in Las Vegas (East Las Vegas), Sunshine Motel is within a 15-minute walk of City of Las Vegas Museum and Gene Torres Golf Course. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Guests may use a roundtrip airport shuttle for a surcharge, and free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1201 Grand Avenue, Las Vegas, New Mexico 87701
Web: Link

Pendaries Village Lodge

With a stay at Pendaries Village Lodge in Rociada, you'll be 13.1 mi (21.1 km) from Morphy Lake State Park and 16.6 mi (26.8 km) from Cleveland Roller Mill Museum. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 31 Lodge Road, Rociada, New Mexico 87742
Web: Link

Palomino motel

Located in Las Vegas (East Las Vegas), Palomino motel is within a 15-minute walk of Gene Torres Golf Course and City of Las Vegas Museum. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1330 Grand Ave, Las Vegas, New Mexico 87701
Web: Link

Rushmore RV

When you stay at Rushmore RV in Mora, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Cleveland Roller Mill Museum. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: CR A011 Mora NM 87732, Mora, New Mexico 87732
Web: Link