Begin exploring the Forts Trail in Abilene. The Trail route may be started at any point along the way, taken in either direction or explored in sections only.

Abilene was established by cattlemen as a stock shipping point on Texas and Pacific Railroad in 1881. The city later became major cattle producing area with diversified farming.

Just a few miles north of Abilene is Fort Phantom Hill. Established in1851 to protect frontier from Indians, the post suffered a series of hardships and was abandoned in 1854. Historians say desertions were frequent due to monotony and loneliness. The fort burned shortly after abandonment; chimneys and foundations are the principal remainders along with the stone commissary, guardhouse, and powder magazine.

Continue 40 miles (64.4 km) northeast to Fort Griffin. This frontier site, whose ruins and restored buildings are spread on both sides of the highway, is a state historical park. Fort Griffin is home to the official state herd of Texas Longhorns. A video on the tough, rangy creatures that sparked the Texas cattle boom can be viewed at the park headquarters. The herd can usually be seen roaming the park grounds. It was a rough, wild settlement frequented by cavalry troopers, trail-herd cowboys, buffalo hunters, and outlaws. More than 200,000 buffalo hides were shipped from the town.

Just beyond Throckmorton the trail comes to Fort Belknap. The fort served as the northern anchor on a line between the Red River and the Rio Grande. Several restored stone structures and historical markers offering details are available. In addition a county museum in the former post commissary is open to the public.

Continue heading east to Jacksboro. Unlike most frontier fort towns, Jacksboro preceded Fort Richardson by a dozen years. Fort Richardson played a key role in the post-Civil War Texas-Indian campaigns. Historic buildings here include the native fieldstone hospital, morgue, guardhouse, commissary, officers’ quarters, barracks and the bakery.

The Texas Forts Trail winds through steep wooded hills, across the Brazos River Valley. Heading south again your next stop is Fort Mason. Primarily a cavalry post, Fort Mason was duty station for such military figures as Albert Sidney Johnston, John Bell Hood and Robert E. Lee. Fort Mason was Lee's last command in the U.S. Army. From here he was called to Washington where he refused command of the Union army being prepared for the War Between the States.

Continue driving through rolling hills, woodlands and farms to Fort McKavett. Surrounded by a haunting hush, you feel the isolation a soldier stationed on the frontier endured. The fort is located on a promontory where travelers today can still see the same view the soldiers had as they watched all directions for an attack. On the south bank of the San Saba River, Fort McKavett was established in March OF 1852. During the Civil War the fort saw little use. All but one building had fallen to ruins by the fort’s second occupation by federal troops in 1868.

As the journey continues north to San Angelo, keep in mind that while the trip today from Fort McKavett to Fort Concho may only take an hour and a half, frontier travelers could spend a full day on horseback to reach the next fort.

North on Highway 277 from the intersection with Highway 190 you reach San Angelo. A vibrant community, San Angelo offers much to the heritage traveler. Along the banks of the Concho River lies historic Fort Concho. Established in 1867, Fort Concho is considered by many historians one of the best examples of post Civil War frontier military architecture west of the Mississippi. Fort Concho has a storied past and housed many historically important regiments including the famed 10th Cavalry unit of African American soldiers. Also known as Buffalo Soldiers, the men of the 10th Cavalry were respected by enemies and allies alike for their extreme loyalty and bravery.

Traveling north on the scenic stretch of highway brings you to the city of Bronte. Eleven miles north of Bronte lies the ghostly remains of a fort. Fort Chadbourne was established by the U.S. Army in October, 1852, but was eventually abandoned in 1868 because of inadequate water and wood supply. Fort Chadbourne guarded one of the less populated regions of the state. However, Chadbourne troops had their share of frontier adventure. From tales of horse races with Peneteka Comanches to reports of violent skirmishes with those same neighbors, soldiers stationed at Fort Chadbourne seldom left without a story to tell. Following the Civil War, troops at the fort primarily protected cattle herders along the Goodnight Trail. This trail activity led to increased hostility with Indians. While the fort provided some security, Chadbourne’s location made it difficult for troops to be where needed most.

The Texas Forts Trail concludes 58 miles (93.3 km) north in Abilene, Texas.

Travel Season/Dates

All forts hold regular visiting hours year round. Travel in the spring or fall to enjoy optimal temperatures. Spring travelers will also experience picturesque wildflower settings.

For more information on Texas Forts:

Texas Tourism
Texas Forts Trail
Texas Parks and Wildlife