Fort Union Trading Post Is One Of North Dakota's Best Kept Secrets

History runs deep in North Dakota, from the days of the plains tribes to the settlers, and statehood to today. If you want to get a taste of that rich history, there are few better places than this historic park. Located in a beautiful natural area and full of stories and ways to see them before your very eyes, this place is one of the state’s hidden gems. Step back into time and take a look:

Decades before North Dakota became a state, there was a fort built on its eventual western border along the Missouri River.

That place was Fort Union Trading Post, which was at one point the most important trading site on the Upper Missouri. Today, it is a park and national historic site that you can visit for free.

The site includes a reconstruction of the original 1828 fort with everything down to the minute detail that you are free to explore and learn about.

It's located right alongside the river with fantastic views of the area's natural beauty. There is a hiking trail that can take you to an overlook that'll show you just how lovely it is.

The fort saw tens of thousands of buffalo hides and other furs traded each year among seven Northern Plains Indian Tribes and the American Fur Company. It was hugely important for both the tribes and the lucrative fur trade.

The fort isn't just interesting to look at from the outside - you can explore it both inside and out, seeing everything up close and personal.

From cannons to accurately depicted storehouses, Fort Union will really make you feel like you've stepped into history.

There is a museum at the site and special events, reenactments, and other fun things to experience at Fort Union Trading Post throughout the year. It's one of North Dakota's most underrated places!

Fort Union Trading Post is located at 15550 Highway 1804, Williston, ND 58801. It is open daily throughout the year except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day. For more information, click here.

This isn’t the only place you can experience North Dakota’s extensive history. There is a state park a ways further east than this that has just as impressive sites to see, and more. Discover it right here!

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This Historic Park Is One Of North Dakota's Best Kept Secrets

Leah

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