Parks / Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site
Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site
National Historic Site · CO
On November 29th, 1864, Chiefs Black Kettle, White Antelope, Left Hand and others were encamped with around 750 Arapaho and Cheyenne people in a valley by the Big Sandy Creek. A hope for peace, brought forth by Black Kettle was in the balance. It was a tragic day where the blood of the Cheyenne and Arapaho was shed, and a painful memory for generations of Native Americans was made.
Official NPS page →Current Alerts (2)
8 Miles of Unpaved Road to Reach Park
In order to reach the Sand Creek Massacre Site, visitors must travel on at least 8 miles of unpaved roads. We are not able to guarantee road conditions of county roads 54 or W after spring storms.
Visitor Services Available Only at the Site
All visitor Services are available at the Historic Site, 23 miles northeast of Eads, Colorado. The Center for Sand Creek Massacre Studies located in Eads, Colorado is available for appointment only research requests.
Entrance Fees
This park is fee-free.
Things to Do
Be a Sand Creek B.A.R.K. Ranger
Bring your furry friend to the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site and take the B.A.R.K. Ranger pledge!
Hike the Monument Hill Trail
The Monument Hill Trail runs from the orientation area to the hill where the overlook is located. Exhibits and benches along the trail introduce the events which led to the massacre.
Sand Creek Ranger Talk
The Sand Creek ranger talk discusses the events of the mid 1800's and describes some of the social, economic, and political factors that contributed to the Sand Creek Massacre. Please note that this is a stationary talk, not a walking tour.
The Bluff Trail
The Bluff Trail is approximately three-quarters of a mile long and runs northwest from the overlook along the bluff overlooking the Big Sandy Creek at roughly the 4,000-foot contour line. Benches and wayside exhibits along the trail allow for moments of peace, solitude, and reflection.
Visitor Centers
- Information Center
Source: National Park Service.