About the Organization
Best-preserved fort on Santa Fe Trail protecting travelers and mail routes 1859-1878. Nine original sandstone buildings interpret frontier military life and Plains Indian conflicts.
Fort Larned National Historic Site preserves a complete and authentic army post from the 1860s and 1870s on the Santa Fe Trail in central Kansas. The well-preserved sandstone buildings once sheltered the troops who became known as the "Guardians of the Santa Fe Trail," and the site interprets the tumultuous history of the Indian Wars era on the Great Plains. Today the fort is administered by the National Park Service.
What to See
Visitors to Fort Larned can explore a range of historic features and programs:
- Restored sandstone buildings — the historically restored structures that made up the working army post.
- History and Nature Trail — a walking trail through the fort's natural areas that reveals some of the long-lost structures supporting the fort's operation.
- Living history and special events — programs that bring the fort's soldiers and the surrounding history to life, including interpretation connected to the Medicine Lodge Treaty.
- Self-guided touring with the NPS App — described by the park as having "a ranger in your pocket" for touring the buildings and grounds.
Planning Your Visit
Fort Larned National Historic Site is located near Larned, Kansas (mailing address 1767 KS Hwy 156). A picnic area is available for visitors who wish to spend the day, and the park offers education programs and a bookstore whose proceeds support the site. Because hours and program schedules can change, confirm details before your visit at the official National Park Service website, nps.gov/fols.
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