Park guide John Launius will be leading a free guided tour at the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site June 15. The 90-minute tour will focus on events that unfolded in the late 1850’s and 1860’s, culminating in the Sand Creek Massacre as well as information following the massacre.

The tour begins at 10:00 a.m. from the lower parking lot at the site, and covers one-half mile of walking trails, concluding at the Monument Hill overlook.

During the tour, Launius will present the history of the site, as well as how lessons from the past can shape present events to avoid similar tragedies. 

Those who participate should dress for the weather. Temperatures are expected to rise to the 80s, with potential for showers and thunderstorms later in the day. Sturdy shoes are encouraged for the moderately rugged trail, along with hats, sunscreen and water.

Over the course of the tour, Park Guide Launius will utilize a variety of interpretive techniques along with audience participation that will provide the historical context to this atrocity and how lessons from the past can shape the present to minimize such tragedies in the future.

The site is open to visitors daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. More information about the site is available at nps.gov/sand, or by calling 719-729-3003.