Ruidoso, located in New Mexico, is a popular tourist destination known for beautiful mountain scenery, skiing, hiking trails, and year-round recreational activities. However, Ruidoso’s charm extends beyond its natural beauty into the historic landmarks and museums that surround it. Whenever you book a Ruidoso cabin rental, you’ll be surrounded by historic attractions and local events to enjoy; however, you don’t want to miss visiting Fort Stanton.
One such historic landmark is Fort Stanton, a former military fort founded in 1855. In this article, we’ll explore Fort Stanton’s rich history and highlight some of the must-see experiences at this historic site.
Fort Stanton History
Fort Stanton was established in 1855 by the U.S. Army as a military fort situated on 240 acres in the vast New Mexico Territory. It served as an important outpost during the Apache Wars, and its primary mission was to protect white settlers who were moving into the region. The fort was later used as a tuberculosis hospital, orphanage, and training center for the Buffalo Soldiers. In 1976, the fort was transferred to the state of New Mexico and designated a National Historic Landmark. Today, the Fort Stanton Historic Site is a museum and cultural center, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into New Mexico’s past. Needless to say, visiting Fort Stanton is an absolute must whenever it comes to things to do in Ruidoso, NM.
Fort Stanton Live
Fort Stanton Live is a unique event that takes place every year in June, which celebrates the history of the fort and its surroundings. It is an opportunity for visitors to experience living history with demonstrations of frontier life, Native American dances, military drills, and much more. Visitors can mingle with re-enactors dressed in authentic costumes and participate in hands-on activities, such as wool spinning, archery, and butter churning. The event is a great way to learn about the rich history of the fort, and it’s a must-see if you’re planning your vacation in June.
Fort Stanton Cave
Fort Stanton Cave is a fascinating natural wonder with a rich and storied history. The cave is the third longest in New Mexico, stretching for over 22 miles and ranking among the top ten most complex caves in the world. It has been explored and studied by geologists and archeologists, who have discovered ancient fossils and artifacts that date back to the Ice Age. Visitors can take guided tours of the cave and learn about its geological formations and unique ecosystem, including the colonies of bats that make their home in the caves. However, due to the cave’s fragile ecosystem, only guided tours are allowed, and visitors must make reservations in advance.
Hours of Operation and Location
Fort Stanton is open to visitors year-round, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The fort’s Visitor Center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Guided tours of the fort’s historic buildings are offered daily at 10:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 1:30 p.m. Tours of the cave can be arranged by calling or emailing the Fort Stanton staff. The fort is located about 14 miles southeast of Ruidoso, just off Highway 220.
Plan Your Visit!
If you’re ready to learn more about Ruidoso’s rich history, now is the perfect time to plan your Ruidoso vacation! View our Ruidoso cabin rentals, book your favorite, and prepare to learn about our village’s rich history.
Where to Stay
If you’re looking for a cozy Ruidoso vacation rental experience in Ruidoso, you should consider staying at Mountain Air Cabins. Located in the heart of Ruidoso, we offer a range of cabins with stunning mountain views and easy access to the best of Ruidoso’s natural and cultural attractions. The cabins and Ruidoso condo rentals are comfortable and cozy, equipped with modern amenities such as WiFi, fireplaces, and hot tubs. It’s an excellent place to stay for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to unwind and relax after a day of exploring Fort Stanton and Ruidoso. We even offer pet friendly cabins in Ruidoso, meaning you don’t need to worry about leaving your four-legged friends at home!
In conclusion, visiting Fort Stanton is a must-do when planning a trip to Ruidoso, New Mexico. Whether you’re interested in history, geology, or just want to experience the natural beauty of the area, Fort Stanton has something for everyone. So, put this historic site on your itinerary and explore the fascinating history and natural wonders of Fort Stanton during your Ruidoso vacation.
