Buffalo Jump State Park in Montana

Bozeman Montana
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Buffalo Jump

Native Americans used to harvest herds of bison for necessary food, clothing, shelter, and tools by stampeding them over Buffalo Jump, a 4482-foot high natural precipice, near Three Forks, Montana.

  • The Shoshone used the natural limestone precipice overlooking the Madison River to harvest herds of buffalo to survive until the 1700s.
  • Day use charge for nonresident vehicle: $5.00 (Free for Montana State Parks Passport holders).
  • Madison Buffalo Jump State Park is open for year-round day-use and is handicapped accessible.

Overview

Just 20 minutes from Bozeman, Montana, Madison Buffalo Jump State Park is a great day hiking and picnic area for families and school kids to explore and learn about local culture and the history of local Native Americans.

The area’s 2,000 year history is displayed via informational kiosks and highlights how the Shoshone primarily used the natural limestone precipice overlooking the Madison River to harvest herds of buffalo to survive up until the 1700s. Other tribes like the Salish, Pend d’Oreille, Bannock, Crow, and Blackfeet also lived in the area.

Directions

Drive 23 miles west of Bozeman on I-90. At the Logan exit, continue 7 miles south on Buffalo Jump Road.

Seasons

Madison Buffalo Jump State Park is open for year-round day-use and is handicapped accessible.

Activities

  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Photography
  • Hiking and Picnicing (no overnight camping permitted)
  • Interpretive Displays

Fees

Day use charge for nonresident vehicle: $5.00 (Free for holders of a Montana State Parks Passport).

Additional Information

For more information call Madison Buffalo Jump State Park at (406) 994-4042.

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