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Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site and its collection

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site
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Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located 18 km northwest of Fort Macleod, Alberta, Canada, on highway 785. This location is where the foothills of the Rocky Mountains begin to rise above the prairies, providing a stunning backdrop for visitors. The site offers a unique insight into the indigenous culture and history of the area.

Historical Significance

The Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump site has a rich history, having been used for over 5,500 years by the native populations of the prairies for hunting bison. The bison were driven off the top of the cliffs to the valley below, providing a unique hunting method. This historical significance adds depth to the visitor experience.

Interpretation Center

The Interpretation Center of Head-Smashed-In is a key feature of the site. Built into an old sandstone cliff, it integrates perfectly into the landscape. The center is arranged on five levels, each showcasing different aspects of the Black Feet culture, including ecology, mythology, lifestyle, and technology. The center provides a comprehensive view of the aboriginal peoples and European archaeological science, thanks to the archaeological discoveries made at the site.

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NLHead-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump
DEHead-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump
ESPrecipicio de los Bisontes de Head-Smashed-In
ITSalto del Bufalo schiantato
FRPrécipice à bisons Head-Smashed-In
ENHead Smashed In Buffalo Jump

History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Nature & Natural History Nature & Natural History Archaeology Ethnology Geology Historic house

#8 History & Anthropology in Alberta #5 Nature & Natural History in Alberta #2 Archaeology museums in Alberta #3 Ethnology museums in Alberta #1 Geology museums in Alberta #6 Historic houses in Alberta #72 History & Anthropology in Canada #34 Nature & Natural History in Canada #7 Archaeology museums in Canada #16 Ethnology museums in Canada #5 Geology museums in Canada #41 Historic houses in Canada

#8 History & Anthropology in Alberta #5 Nature & Natural History in Alberta #2 Archaeology museums in Alberta #3 Ethnology museums in Alberta #1 Geology museums in Alberta #6 Historic houses in Alberta #72 History & Anthropology in Canada #34 Nature & Natural History in Canada #7 Archaeology museums in Canada #16 Ethnology museums in Canada #5 Geology museums in Canada #41 Historic houses in Canada

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Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site
Secondary Highway #785
AB T0L 0Z0 Fort Macleod

Images of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site

Visitor information Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday
10:00 – 17:00
Thursday
10:00 – 17:00
Friday
10:00 – 17:00
Saturday
10:00 – 17:00
Sunday
10:00 – 17:00

Summer (Victoria Day - Thanksgiving)
Daily from 10am to 5pm

Winter (Thanksgiving - Victoria Day)
Wed - Sun - 10am to 5pm

More opening hours

Admission

0 – 6Free
7 – 17CA$10.00
18 – 64CA$15.00
65+CA$13.00
Canadian Military and Family (with CFOne card)Free
Cultural Access PassFree
Family (2 Adults + Youths to a maximum of 8 people)CA$40.00
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Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site.

Location & Map

Secondary Highway #785, Fort Macleod

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site have been found.

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site Reviews

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site offers visitors an insightful look into the history and culture of the Plains Indigenous peoples. Located near Fort Macleod, Alberta, this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the ancient hunting practice of driving bison off a cliff. The museum's interpretive center, built into the cliff, provides an immersive experience with well-designed exhibits and informative displays.

    Visitors appreciate the site's beautiful location and the opportunity to learn about Indigenous history and culture. The knowledgeable staff, often from local Indigenous communities, enhance the experience with their personal insights and stories. The center's architecture, which blends seamlessly with the landscape, is frequently praised.

    While many find the entrance fee reasonable for the quality of the experience, some visitors mention that the site can be explored relatively quickly, potentially leaving those expecting a longer visit slightly disappointed. A few reviewers note that some exhibits could benefit from updates or more interactive elements to engage younger visitors.

    The walking trails offer stunning views of the prairies, though some visitors caution that the outdoor portion of the site may be less enjoyable in inclement weather. The gift shop receives mixed reviews, with some finding unique items while others feel the selection could be improved.

    Overall, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is widely regarded as an educational and culturally significant destination, offering a deeper understanding of Indigenous history and practices in North America.

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  • Aggregated rating

    This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.

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