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Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a sandstone cliff at the edge of the Porcupine Hills in southwestern Alberta, used for thousands of years by Plains peoples to hunt bison. Hunters guided herds toward the cliff edge and processed the animals at a camp below. The site, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the oldest and best preserved buffalo jumps in North America, and it remains culturally important to the Blackfoot Confederacy.
The interpretive centre is built into the cliff itself and explains the hunting techniques, ecology and culture behind the site, often through Blackfoot guides. Trails lead along the cliff and drive lanes, where stone cairns once helped funnel the herds, and down to the processing area. The Porcupine Hills approach shows the broad landscape that made the hunt possible. Throughout the year, events and demonstrations highlight dance, drumming and traditional skills, and the Joe Crowshoe Sr. Lodge hosts some programs.
Anyone interested in Indigenous history and archaeology will find a half day here well spent. Fort Macleod, a short drive east, adds a historic downtown, the Fort Museum of the North West Mounted Police and the Empress Theatre. Farther west, Pincher Creek's Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village and Heritage Acres Farm Museum continue the local history theme.
WiserMap travel guideHead-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Alberta Blackfoot HistoryVisit Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO site near Fort Macleod, with Blackfoot history, cliff trails, nearby towns, local food and trip planning tips.Read the guide
The interpretive center is built into the sandstone cliff and has several levels of exhibits on the Blackfoot people, the bison hunt, and life on the plains, plus a film about the jump. Start on the top floor, which opens onto the cliff top. Allow two to three hours, and check opening hours.
The Fort Museum in Fort Macleod is a replica of the 1874 North West Mounted Police fort, with exhibits on the police, local Indigenous peoples and pioneer life. In summer, riders in red serge perform the Musical Ride. Check the schedule for performance times, and allow about two hours.
The upper trail leads from the interpretive center along the edge of the cliff over which bison were driven for thousands of years. Signs explain the drive lanes and how the hunt worked. There are wide views over the plains and the Porcupine Hills. It can be very windy, so hold on to hats.
The lower trail is a walk of about 1.5 km along the base of the cliff to the kill site and the area where bison were processed. It shows how deep the bone deposits are below the jump. The path has some slope and can be hot in summer, so carry water and wear good shoes.
The Porcupine Hills rise west of the buffalo jump, a band of grassy and forested foothills between the prairie and the Rockies. Bison were gathered from these uplands before being driven to the cliff. Backroads through the hills make a quiet scenic drive; watch for cattle and wildlife.
In summer the site often hosts performances by Blackfoot dancers and drummers, as well as talks and demonstrations of traditional skills. They are a chance to hear about Blackfoot culture from community members. Check the event calendar before visiting, as dates vary from year to year.
Fort Macleod, about 18 km from the buffalo jump, has one of the best-preserved historic main streets in Alberta, with early 1900s brick and sandstone buildings. Walk the downtown to see the facades, small shops and cafes. It is the nearest town for meals, fuel and places to stay.
The Empress Theatre on Fort Macleod's main street opened in 1912 and is one of the oldest working theatres in Alberta. It hosts concerts, plays and films in a restored historic interior. Check the program in advance; tours or a show are the best way to see the inside.
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