A Sacred Place Waterton is a sacred place to the Blackfoot people. It is here that the ancient Beaver Bundle was visioned. The Beaver Bundle contains the essence of life and is traditionally opened in the spring. You can learn more about the First Nations in Waterton. Scenic pullouts along the Red Rock Canyon Parkway and at the Maskinonge offer insights into the importance of Waterton to the Blackfoot and Kootenai People.
My Waterton, Paahtomahksikimi ... Dr. Brian Reeves
Mistakis “The Backbone of the World” and more specifically “Api-pistokaki-kimi”... (North Big Inside Lake) (Waterton) has been my home for 73 years. It’s my centering place, my sacred place, the constant in my life. When driving in, and I first see the mountains, valleys, lakes, grasslands and forests, my heart is joyful and my spirit uplifted. I am returning home once again, to land held dear to humans for over 500 generations. I give thanks to the Piikani ancestors and the spirits that dwell within, as well to the early ranchers who so valued this place they worked hard to protect it. Over 130 years ago they recognized it’s outstanding values and got the lands set aside. Parts of my family have been here ever since. We and our children are today’s keepers. We must all continue the work to ensure Mistakis continues for untold generations. It is a privilege, not a right, to reside in such a place as the winds sent by Napi constantly remind me. mywaterton.ca
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WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK 39