This Historic Park 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 in North Dakota. Located in a beautiful natural area and full of stories and ways to see them before your very eyes, Fort Union Trading Post is one of the state's hidden gems. Step back into time, and take a look at this North Dakota park!

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. It's one of the most significant historic places in North Dakota.

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, as well as special events, reenactments, and other fun things to experience at this North Dakota hidden gem park throughout the year. It's one of North Dakota's most underrated places!

Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Park in North Dakota is open daily throughout the year except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day. Diving deep into our state's history really makes one proud of their North Dakota roots, doesn't it?

This isn't the only place you can experience North Dakota's extensive history. There is a state park a ways farther east than this park, and its sites are just as impressive.