National Monument · Watrous, NM

Fort Union National Monument

Exposed to the wind, within a sweeping valley of short grass prairie, and along the eroded Santa Fe Trail, lie the adobe walled ruins of the largest 19th century military fort in the region. From 1851 to 1891, Fort Union functioned as an agent of change, desired or not, in the New Mexico Territory and throughout the Southwest.

Verify before visitingLast verified
Watrous, NMIllustrated fallback; not documentary imagery

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Visit map35.9070, -105.0145
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Verify before visitingChecked August 2026

Address & directions

3115 NM Highway 161, Watrous, NM 87753
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Weekly hours

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Contact & source

Access & amenities

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What to look for

  • National Monument
  • Managed by the National Park Service
  • Guided Tours
  • Self-Guided Tours - Walking

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Why it matters

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