Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump
Location: Alberta, Canada
Year of Inscription: 1981
Criteria: (vi)to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
Overview: The site is an ancient hunting ground where the indigenous people of the plains hunted bison for thousands of years. The site is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of these people, who developed sophisticated techniques and tools to hunt bison on a large scale. Today, the site serves as an important cultural and historical landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives and traditions of the indigenous people of the plains.
Prominent Features: Some of the most notable features of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump include:
History: The history of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump dates back over 6,000 years, when the indigenous people of the plains first began hunting bison on a large scale. They developed sophisticated techniques and tools to herd the bison to the cliff and to harvest their resources. The site was in use for thousands of years until the arrival of Europeans in the 18th century, who brought with them firearms and horses that changed the dynamics of bison hunting.
Family-Friendly Activities: There are a variety of family-friendly activities available at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, including:
Fun Fact: The name "Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump" comes from a legend in which a young man was trampled to death by bison falling from the cliff. His mother returned to the site years later and found his skull at the base of the cliff, hence the name.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is $15 per person for adults, $13 per person for seniors, and $10 per person for youth aged 7-17. Children under 6 years of age are free.
How to Reach It: Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is located in southwestern Alberta, approximately 18 kilometers northwest of Fort Macleod. The site is accessible by car via Highway 2, and there is ample parking available on site.
Where to Stay: There are a variety of accommodation options available near Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, including hotels, motels, and campgrounds. Some popular options include the Fort Macleod Motel, the Century 2 Motel, and the Oldman River Regional Campground.
Next Stop: Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks
Year of Inscription: 1981
Criteria: (vi)to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
Overview: The site is an ancient hunting ground where the indigenous people of the plains hunted bison for thousands of years. The site is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of these people, who developed sophisticated techniques and tools to hunt bison on a large scale. Today, the site serves as an important cultural and historical landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives and traditions of the indigenous people of the plains.
Prominent Features: Some of the most notable features of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump include:
- The buffalo jump itself: A steep cliff where the indigenous people of the plains would herd bison to their death. The bison would fall from the cliff and be killed, allowing the hunters to harvest their meat, hides, and other resources.
- The interpretive center: A state-of-the-art facility that offers exhibits, displays, and educational programs on the history and culture of the indigenous people of the plains.
- The archaeological site: An area where archaeologists have uncovered thousands of artifacts, including tools, weapons, and animal bones, that shed light on the lives and traditions of the indigenous people of the plains.
History: The history of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump dates back over 6,000 years, when the indigenous people of the plains first began hunting bison on a large scale. They developed sophisticated techniques and tools to herd the bison to the cliff and to harvest their resources. The site was in use for thousands of years until the arrival of Europeans in the 18th century, who brought with them firearms and horses that changed the dynamics of bison hunting.
Family-Friendly Activities: There are a variety of family-friendly activities available at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, including:
- Participating in guided tours of the site, which offer a wealth of information on the history and culture of the indigenous people of the plains.
- Attending educational programs and events at the interpretive center, which offer hands-on activities and exhibits for children and adults alike.
- Exploring the nearby hiking trails and parks, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and wildlife.
Fun Fact: The name "Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump" comes from a legend in which a young man was trampled to death by bison falling from the cliff. His mother returned to the site years later and found his skull at the base of the cliff, hence the name.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is $15 per person for adults, $13 per person for seniors, and $10 per person for youth aged 7-17. Children under 6 years of age are free.
How to Reach It: Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is located in southwestern Alberta, approximately 18 kilometers northwest of Fort Macleod. The site is accessible by car via Highway 2, and there is ample parking available on site.
Where to Stay: There are a variety of accommodation options available near Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, including hotels, motels, and campgrounds. Some popular options include the Fort Macleod Motel, the Century 2 Motel, and the Oldman River Regional Campground.
Next Stop: Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks