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Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump

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Historical site
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Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump (Canada)

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Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, located near Fort Macleod in Alberta, is one of the oldest and best-preserved sites for communal bison hunting by indigenous peoples. For over 5,500 years, the Blackfoot people (Siksikaitsitapi) utilized the natural topography of the region to drive bison over the 10-meter-high cliffs. This highly sophisticated hunting method required a profound understanding of animal behavior and precise coordination through an intricate system of drive lanes. The site encompasses the hunting grounds, the cliff itself, and the processing camps in the valley below where the animals were butchered for meat and hides. Due to its outstanding significance for human history and Plains Indian culture, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981. The archaeological deposit at the base of the cliff is over 10 meters deep, containing layers of bones and stone tools accumulated over millennia. Today, the site features an award-winning interpretive center built directly into the hillside to honor the legacy of the bison culture.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-7-7-239141817124-2-7
Rain mm403540527195374350444641

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a historic site showcasing the traditional hunting method of indigenous peoples. You can explore the interpretive centre and the cliffs.
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Typical hours
The site is typically open daily from May to September, with reduced hours in the winter half. It's recommended to check the website.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the area - the vast prairie and cliffs offer impressive panoramas. Drone flights may require permission.
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Time needed
Allow about two to three hours for the visit including the interpretive centre and audio-guide tour. The trails along the cliffs require extra time.
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Combine with
The site combines with Waterton Lakes National Park or the Writing-on-Stone petroglyphs. Nearby indigenous cultural centres are also recommended.
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Getting there
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is about 30 minutes northwest of Fort Macleod on Highway 785. A rental car is the most practical option.
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Insider tip
Visit the interpretive centre first to see the fascinating exhibit on the buffalo jumps. The audio guide provides deep insights into indigenous history.

History & landmarks

Pre-Contact

-4000

Geography

Elevation
1050 m
Coordinates
49.74940, -113.65000

Facts

  • Used for over 5,500 years
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981
  • Bone deposits over 10 meters deep
  • Traditional land of the Blackfoot
  • Cliff height of approximately 10 meters
  • Interpretive center built into the cliff

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Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump (2)

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump🌿 nature

A UNESCO World Heritage Site used by indigenous peoples for buffalo hunting.

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site🌿 nature

A UNESCO World Heritage Site nature reserve.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump?
A historic site where indigenous peoples hunted buffalo for over 6,000 years.
How did the hunting method work?
Buffalo were stampeded over the cliffs through strategic deception.
Is there a visitor center?
Yes, an award-winning center built into the cliff explains Blackfoot culture.
Where is the site located?
In southwestern Alberta, about two hours south of Calgary.
Is the site open year-round?
The visitor center is open year-round, while outdoor trails depend on the weather.
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump: where is it located?
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is located in Canada.
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump: what is there to see?
Highlights include Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site.
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump: why is it worth visiting?
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, located near Fort Macleod in Alberta, is one of the oldest and best-preserved sites for communal bison hunting by indigenous peoples.
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