MONTANA PARK OF THE WEEK Madison Buffalo Jump

Take a picnic and hike to the top of a buffalo jump for impressive views of the Madison River Valley.

Buffalo bones still lie buried at the cliff's base, and archaeologists have located the tipi rings of an extensive village. With a little imagination, it is easy to visualize the drama of a buffalo drive, the thunderous roar of the stampede, the dramatic sight of the fall, and the frenzy of activity that followed.

Situated on the edge of a broad valley carved by the Madison River, this high limestone cliff was used by Native Americans for 2,000 years - ending as recently as 200 years ago.

Native people stampeded vast herds of bison off this massive semicircular cliff, using them for food, clothing, shelter, and provisions.

"Runners," highly skilled young men trained for speed and endurance, wore buffalo, antelope, or wolf skins to lure bison to the "pishkun" or cliff. The buffalo jump was often the key to the existence of native peoples.

Although the introduction of horses led to the abandonment of this jump sometime after 1700, the rugged outcropping now serves as an inspiring monument to the region's early inhabitants.

Just 30 miles from downtown Bozeman is an off-the-beaten-path hike at a historic Native American site. Trails start in open grasslands, then meander through cliffs to the top of a limestone bluff. The not-so-ancient buffalo jump is truly a site to witness. As far as routes are concerned, multiple are available.

The park includes all the main geographical features of a jump site, and other evidence remains to provide visitors with a glimpse into the cultures that used this hunting style. Interpretive displays help visitors understand the dramatic events that took place here for nearly 2,000 years.

Park: Open all year, during daylight hours.

Location: 6990 Buffalo Jump Road, Three Forks, MT 59752