Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump

Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump was used for 6000 years by the native people of the Canadian Plains as a means of killing buffalo for clothing and shelter. They accomplished this by stampeding buffalo and driving them over the 11 meter cliffs that run all the way along the tip of this foothill in Southern Alberta, just outside of Fort Macleod. By the time the buffalo reached this area from the grazing areas about 3 km away in the porcupine hills, they could often be traveling at speeds of about 50km/h, so their falls were most certainly fatal. This spot demonstrates amazing topography, as well as demonstrates and amazing piece of Canadian history. A must see.

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While visiting Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump be sure to check out the traditional Tipi set up near the overflow parking. Not only do you get to see the monument, you can also see the mountain range in the background, as well as getting a great panoramic view of the entire cliff used to stampede the buffalo to their deaths. This truly is a remarkable piece of Canadian history.

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One of my favorite parts about the Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump Museum is that it is built entirely underground. I remember as a kid coming outside after taking the tour and realizing we were standing on the roof, which was flush with the top of the hill. It was absolutely mind boggling to me as a child, and is still amusing to me now as a 24-year old Business student.

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The Albertan Prairies are an amazing place. This photograph is to demonstrate the raw beauty and topography of Southern Alberta. From flat prairies, to rolling hills, coulees, and one of the most amazing mountain ranges in North America - The Rocky Mountains; Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump is no exception. From the top you can see for miles, and from below, as illustrated by the picture, you can see just how truly amazing Alberta is. As the story goes, the Native people of these lands would stampede the buffalo and chase them towards the cliffs you see here. A buffalo can reach maximum speeds of 50km/h, so the fall was almost certainly fatal. Hence the name: Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump.

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Southern Alberta is known as one of the windiest locations in Canada. This sign is placed at the mouth of the highway leading to Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump, and for you Non-Southern Albertans - Yes! That really is what it's called. The sign is constantly spinning depending on the direction and speed of the wind, so taking a picture infront of it could be tricky, and fun!

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