Why go
At the confluence of Missouri and Yellowstone River is one of the most important historical trading stations in the American West. The Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site was the main fur trading center on the upper Missouri between 1828 and 1867 and played a crucial role in exchange between European traders and indigenous peoples of the northern Great Plains.
Today, a large part of the fort has been reconstructed faithfully. As you walk through the mighty palisades, warehouses and residential buildings, it feels like you are going back to the time of trappers, traders and steamships.
Since the fort is located directly on the border with Montana, it is ideal as a stopover on a trip between North Dakota and Glacier National Park.
At a glance
Category | Information
Establishment | 1828
Ideal stay | 2–3 hours
Fifth-wheel access | Check your vehicle, specific campsite and approach road.
History | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Family Friendly | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Reconstructed Fort
The centrepiece of the plant is the completely reconstructed trading station.
Among other things, you can visit:
Trade house
Storehouses
Workshops
Living spaces
Courtyard
mighty wooden palisades
Many buildings are furnished with faithful furniture and tools.
Photo Tip
The entire fort can be photographed particularly impressively from the entrance area, framed by the open prairie.
Bourgeois House
The house of the manager gives an impression of the surprisingly comfortable life of the then merchant elite.
Faithful furnishings and numerous information boards tell about everyday life in the fort.
Trade House
Here, furs were once exchanged for goods from Europe.
The following shall be issued:
Rifles
Tools
Substance
Glass beads
Household goods
The exhibition clearly explains how the fur trade worked.
Missouri River Overlook
A short walk leads to the shore of the Missouri River.
Here you can easily understand why the fort was built at this very point: The river was then the most important traffic artery of the American West.
Ranger Guides
During the summer season, Rangers offer exciting tours through the fort.
You will learn more about:
Trade in fur
indigenous cultures
Steam
Life on the Frontier
Living History
On selected days, employees in historical clothing show traditional crafts such as:
Forging
Manufacture of leather
Make Fire
Cooking
Insider tip
Get informed about event days before your visit – the Living History demonstrations will make the fort even more lively.
Walk along the Missouri River
Several short paths lead through the prairie to the river bank.
With some luck, whitehead eagles or mule deer can be observed.
Shopping
The small park shop offers:
Books
historical maps
souvenirs
Toys
regional products
Especially interesting are books on the fur trade and the history of Great Plains.
Food & drink
There is no restaurant right at the fort.
Recommended are:
Missouri Breaks Café (Williston)
Popular for:
Burger
Sandwiches
American Kitchen
Dakota Farms Restaurant (Williston)
Regional specialities and large portions.
Ideal for travellers.
Lewis & Clark State Park Campground
Just a few kilometers away.
Benefits:
Spacious pitches
partially hook-ups
Beautiful location on Lake Sakakawea
Ideal for Fifth Wheels.
Prairie View RV Park (Williston)
Modern RV park with full hook-up.
Perfect as a stopover.
Little Missouri State Park Campground
Nature camping with lots of peace and wonderful scenery.
RV tip
The driveway and the parking spaces are also suitable for large campers. Since the terrain is wide, it is recommended to use sturdy footwear.
Insider tip
Combine your visit with a trip along the Missouri River or a detour to Lewis & Clark State Park. The landscape is one of the most beautiful in North Dakotas northwest.
Photo Tip
In the late afternoon, the warm light provides especially beautiful shots of wooden palisades and historic buildings.
Avoid frequent errors
Plan enough time for the exhibitions – many visitors underestimate the size of the fort.
In summer there is little shade. Sun protection and sufficient drinking water are recommended.
Check the opening hours before arrival – they may be restricted outside of high season.
Don't forget the walk to the Missouri River – it gives a good impression of the historic location of the fort.
Our recommendation
The Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site is one of the most important historical sites in the American West and is far more than a small open-air museum. The faithfully reconstructed trading station impressively tells of a time when fur trade, the Missouri River and encounters between different cultures shaped North America.