Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump Alberta

Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump.

Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump is a designated 'UNESCO World Heritage Site', located in the S.W. corner of Alberta 18km N.W. of Fort Mcleod. Several hundred years ago the Blackfoot Native Indians used the cliffs here to kill the Buffalo that they depended on for their survival. This was done by herding the Buffalo then stampeding them over the local cliffs. The 1st Nations Blackfoot Indians are a strong and powerful people that have a profound attachment to this area. Their Native history here, goes back several thousand years as can be found through the archaeological artifacts found in the area. Today there is an incredible five level interpretive center built into the side of the hill that offers fascinating and informative displays. The front of the interpretive centre hides it's size as it shows only as an entrance. The fully displayed five levels lead to the top of the hill where the cliffs are located. Views above the cliffs are outstanding. One can see West towards the Rocky Mountains, East towards the prairies, South towards gently rolling foothills and the Oldman River. Once here you can see why the Blackfoot Natives and the local wildlife congregated here. This area looks and feels like a natural point of gathering for all life. The estimated 60 million Buffalo that roamed the great plains are no longer here but the deer, elk, antelope, and birds of prey can still be found here. It is well worth the effort to hike higher up to the top of the hill above the cliffs and also take in the trails located below the cliffs. The energy here is strong. I mentioned this to a very proud and knowledgeable Native Blackfoot Indian that was working in the area, he told me "It was his ancestors I felt". I believe him without a doubt. As you drive towards the site you will see large quartzite boulders that were left after the melt of the glacial ice age. These large rocks can be found sparsely scattered all the way to the Saskatchewan border and are called glacial erratics as they do not belong here. They were carried by glaciers several 100 km's from the Mount Edith

Cavell Area near Jasper. The same Native Blackfoot Indian I mentioned above said these rocks were used by his ancestors for navigating on the prairies. It was humbling to stop and sit upon one of these rocks. I'm sure countless numbers of Buffalo used this rock as a scratching post and several people over thousands of years had travelled past or sat on it like I did. I'm also sure that their previous life's were much more interesting then mine. It made me wish I could travel back in time to witness the Blackfoot's Indians majestic way of life. Another note worth mentioning is the lack of recognition the 1st Nations Blackfoot Indians received. I was born and raised in Calgary Alberta and was never taught the Blackfoot's way of life or their nearby history. I was stunned while viewing this Interpretive centre. Years ago the 1st Nations culture was suppressed by the local government and education systems in an effort to change their way of life. I hope that those in power now see 1st Nations people deserved much better. Wow, if you're touring Alberta don't miss this site and the history of the 1st Nations Blackfoot Indians. Tipi camping is also available here. The campground Writing On Stone Provincial Park is another 1st Nations historical spot that is located 138km East.

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