Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, Alberta:
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Alberta, Canada. It is the most important and best-preserved buffalo jump in the world. The jump is a cliff that was used by Plains people to drive bison over the edge to their deaths. The jump was used for thousands of years, and it is estimated that over 10 million bison were killed at Head-Smashed-In.
Visitor fee:
The cost of admission to Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is CAD $27 for adults, CAD $22 for seniors, CAD $17 for youth (6-17), and free for children 5 and under. There are also annual passes available.
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, Alberta
Transportation:
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is located about 180 kilometers (112 miles) southeast of Calgary, Alberta. It is accessible by car, bus, and train.
Things to do:
There are a number of things to do at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, including:
- Visiting the interpretive center: The interpretive center at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump provides visitors with information about the history and culture of the Plains people.
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre, Alberta
- Walking the trails: There are a number of trails that lead to the top of the jump, where you can get a stunning view of the surrounding area.
- Learning about the buffalo: There is a buffalo jump demonstration that takes place every day, where you can learn about how the Plains people used to hunt bison.
- Visiting the museum: The museum at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump has a collection of artifacts that were found at the site, including bison bones, tools, and clothing.
List of activities:
Here are some of the most popular activities at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump:
- Taking a guided tour: There are a number of guided tours available, which offer visitors a deeper understanding of the site.
- Hiking: There are a number of hiking trails that lead to the top of the jump, where you can get a stunning view of the surrounding area.
- Camping: There is a campground located near Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, where you can stay overnight and enjoy the peace and quiet of the prairie.
- Picnicking: There is a picnic area located near the interpretive center, where you can enjoy a meal with stunning views of the jump.
Why people enjoy coming here:
People enjoy coming to Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump for a variety of reasons, including:
- The natural beauty: The site is located in a stunning setting, with rolling hills and prairies.
- The history: The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of the most important archaeological sites in North America.
- The activities: There are a number of things to do at the site, including hiking, camping, and learning about the history of the Plains people.
- The atmosphere: The site is peaceful and serene, and it is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
How old is this place:
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump was used for thousands of years, and it is estimated that it was first used around 5,500 years ago. The site was abandoned around 200 years ago, when the Plains people began to adopt European technology.
Additional nearby attractions:
There are a number of other attractions located near Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, including:
- Fort Macleod: This historic town is located about 18 kilometers (11 miles) from Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump.
- Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park: This park is home to a number of petroglyphs, which are rock carvings that were created by the Plains people.
- The Oldman River: This river is a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.