Twilight Hike at Fort Mandan State Historic Site

The public is invited to join the 2026 Twilight Hike at Fort Mandan State Historic Site in Washburn on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The free tour will be hosted by nationally certified interpreters who will guide participants from the Fort Mandan Visitor Center along the trail beside the Missouri River.

Light the path with candles and lanterns as you explore Fort Mandan after dark. Staff will share stories of the Lewis and Clark Expedition—the men’s journey up the Missouri River, their encounters with the Mandan and Hidatsa peoples, and the search for the perfect winter camp. Inside the fort, guided tours bring the Corps of Discovery’s winter to life. Rooms glow with firelight and punched tin lanterns, showing how the men lived through long, cold evenings on the Missouri River.

“The evening tour offers a different way to experience Fort Mandan,” said Interpretive Coordinator Bethany Schatz. “Seeing the fort in the evening reveals aspects daytime programs can’t capture.” During the event, interpreters will wear clothing similar to what members of the expedition used, and attendees can try on select period garments.

This event is part of the ND250 commemoration celebrating our country’s 250th birthday.

For more information, contact Interpretive Coordinator Bethany Schatz, 701.462.8535 or [email protected]. Find additional upcoming educational programs sponsored by the State Historical Society at history.nd.gov/events.