• by Paul Slocumb •

Traveling from San Antonio to El Paso in the mid to late 19th century required more protection than just a hat and a gun.  In the eyes of the United States Department of War it required stationing Army troops in a string of frontier forts, one of which is now celebrated as a Fort Davis National Historic Site.

Situated 24 miles northwest of Alpine, the Site lies in the shelter of Sleeping Lion Mountain and provides over 20 roofed buildings and 100 ruins for public viewing.  Five of the buildings have been fully refurbished, allowing visitors a glimpse back in time to the 1880s when Fort activity was at its height.

For those with sturdy-soled shoes, the Site also includes four miles of hiking trails which offer two overlooks and numerous interpretive signs describing vegetation as well as historical and natural features.

Entrance to the Site is $10 for visitors 16 and older while those under the age of 15 may enter for free.  Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week, except for holiday closure on New Year’s Day, MLK Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.  Entrance is free for everyone on National Public Lands Day (September 22) and Veterans Day (November 11).

For more information, visit https://www.nps.gov/foda/index.htm