Fort Bridger was established in 1842 by Jim Bridger, a famous mountain man and trapper, and his partner Louis Vasquez as a trading post and supply point for wagon trains heading west. The fort was taken over by Mormon settlers in 1855 after they threatened to arrest Bridger for illegally selling alcohol to the Native Americans. When federal troops were sent west to replace Brigham Young as governor of Utah Territory the Mormons abandoned the fort, setting it on fire as they left. The federal army rebuilt the fort and used it until 1890. The buildings and land were then sold and used as cattle pasture, barns, and hotels.
The fort site today includes 27 historic structures, 4 historic replica structures, and 6 modern structures. Tours of the grounds are self guided with interpretive signs and brochures provided. We took a guided tour with access to the interiors of some of the buildings but this does not appear to be a daily event. A small museum with well done exhibits covers all five periods of activity at the fort.
We visited on Friday of Labor Day weekend during the annual Fort Bridger Rendezvous which is gathering of mountain men enthusiasts wearing period clothing and living as they would have in the early 1800s. Rows of tents serve as booths for hand crafted items, period merchandise, and food. We were a bit disappointed at the lack of demonstrations and other activities but I think there may have been more on Saturday and Sunday. We did watch the Native American dancers. The grounds are grassy so pushing is a bit difficult.
Paved and boardwalk trails provide access to most areas of the fort. The major buildings are accessible but the admissions building has a step. The parking lot is gravel.
The parking lot is large enough for any RV. Fort 41.31816, -110.38979
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