These topographic features played a key role in the hunt for bison — an important aspect in the life of the first peoples of Montana. Today, there are buffalo jumps you can visit in Montana to learn about the lifestyles of these tribes.
Buffalo jumps are cliffs or high hills that tribes would use to hunt bison. A young male disguising himself as a calf would lead a herd of bison from their grazing field up toward a cliff. Once they reached the top, he would remove his hides and reveal himself in order to start a stampede. While the young male would run for his life in the opposite direction, the herd would stampede toward the cliff’s edge, realizing too late that they were about to run over the side. As the bison fell off the cliff, hunters were poised below — ready to kill any that survived the fall.
This hunting technique was used by many tribes in Montana in order to hunt bison. They would utilize every part of the bison after the hunt, from eating the meat, to tanning and wearing the hides, and crafting the bones into weapons. There would always be a prayer and ceremony following a big hunt to thank the animals for giving their lives in order to foster the prosperity of the tribe.
Three buffalo jumps across the state that allow visitors to come and learn about this sacred act that took place for thousands of years are:
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Just outside of Great Falls, this is possibly the largest buffalo jump in North America and it was utilized for at least a thousand years — there are up to 18 feet of compacted bison remains at the cliff’s base. Here, you’ll see the remnants of the drive lanes used to herd the buffalo toward the edge of the jump, and you can explore the visitor center to learn more about the significance of the buffalo jump in Native American culture. This is also a breathtaking vantage point to view the plains that roll on forever.
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This jump was used for over 2,000 years, and as recently as 200 years ago. At this site, archaeologists have found remains of an expansive tipi village at the base of the cliff, as well as bison bones. While you’re visiting, make sure to pack a picnic, set out on the state park’s trails and take in the spectacular views of the Madison River Valley.
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Located in Havre, this extremely well-preserved jump was used for more than 2,000 years and was the first to be interpreted for the public. Visitors can also explore the archaeological dig site, where remains have been found as far as 20 feet below the earth’s surface.
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