Fort Laramie

This old fort dates back to 1834 when it was a trading post and known as Fort William. In the 1840s, wagon trains traveling along the Oregon-California trail stopped here to stock up on supplies. In 1841, the site was known as Fort John and overlooked the Laramie River.

Eventually, Fort Laramie was founded in 1849 as a military post. The fort was established to protect emigrants who were traveling west from attacks by Native Americans. Fort Laramie evolved into the largest and best known military post on the Northern Plains.

After the completion of the transcontinental railroad, the fort's importance gradually decreased as fewer wagon trains were formed to take the various trails west and regional American indians were pacified. It was finally abandoned in 1890.

This place was awesome. It is really well laid out and really has lots to see. I would allow plenty of time because this place really allows you an opportunity to take a step back into time and see a piece of history.

Wonderful piece of history. I would recommend 4-5 hours to explore depending on how interested you are in this period.

Great stopover on way to.... Really fantastic fort. Set up well with ability to roam freely. We used this as a stopover for picnic lunch on our way up to the Badlands. Next time we will allow more time to investigate