Overview
On November 29, 1864, in the middle of the Civil War, a tragedy played out on this spot where Chief Black Kettle and 700 other American Indians were peacefully spending the winter in accordance with the 1861 Treaty of Fort Wise. A surprise attack led by Colonel John Chivington killed between 165 and 200 Cheyenne and Arapaho, primarily women, children, and the elderly. The site is held sacred by the Cheyenne and Arapaho, so is only viewable from an overlook above the cottonwood-lined creek. It serves as an important reminder of the terrible acts people can undertake when they dehumanize their fellow men.
Highlights
Memorial, trail, overlook
Must-Do Activity
Authorized in 2000 upon the discovery of two grisly letters describing the gruesome event, Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site opened to the public in 2007. It is located in a remote section of the eastern Colorado plains, down a long dirt road, but it does have a small visitor center in a trailer staffed by the National Park Service (NPS). Near the parking lot you will find posted the letters written by Captain Soule and Lieutenant Cramer, whose units refused to fire during the massacre. Be warned that the description of the mutilation of the bodies is painful to read and not suitable for children.
Best Trail
There is a 0.8-mile self-guided walking trail with a few interpretive signs. There is also a 600-mile Sand Creek Massacre Trail designated on highways between here and the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming.
Instagram-worthy Photo
We took this photo from the overlook of the 1864 Cheyenne and Arapaho camp in November nearly 153 years after the massacre.
Peak Season
Summer
Hours
https://www.nps.gov/sand/planyourvisit/hours.htm
Fees
None
Road Conditions
The dirt access road is well maintained.
Camping
None
Related Sites
Washita Battlefield National Historic Site (Oklahoma)
Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site (Colorado)
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve (Colorado)
These disturbing letters were written by Captain Soule and Lieutenant Cramer, whose units refused to fire during the attack. 
Scott at the overlook 
Wondon at the overlook 
Explore More – Who was the Colorado Territorial Governor that authorized the 100-day volunteer cavalry to “kill and destroy” hostile American Indians?
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