Wahkpa Chu'gn Buffalo Jump Archaeological Site

Wahkpa Chu'gn is a prehistoric buffalo jump dating back to 2,000 years before present. Peoples of the Besant, Avonlea, and Old Women's/Saddle Butte archaeological complexes are represented in the site area. These were the primary prehistoric occupants of the area and region for the last two millennia and this site is generally recognized as the best-known site regionally documenting those cultures over that period of time.



On your tour you will view cultural features of the extensive remains of a wooden bison corral structure ceremonially incorporating bison skulls in its construction, a multiple stone boiling pit and roasting pit features and layers of bone to depths up to 20 feet.



One hour guided tours of the site are offered daily from June 1st through Labor Day. Visitors view pits up to 20 feet below the surface where artifacts remain in place as discovered. At the end of each tour visitors are taught how to throw the "atlatl" which was the weapon of choice for the earliest peoples at the site, the Besant. The site is handicapped accessible and off season tours are available weather permitting by calling 406-265-6417 or 406-945-3503.



Also on site is the Wahkpa Chu'gn Interpretive Center where artifacts from the site are available for public viewing.