Experience Blackfoot Crossing

As we left Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park, with the many powerful experiences and exhibits still fresh on our minds, we decided we needed to do one last thing to commemorate a thoroughly enjoyable day. With my father-in-law, Gordon, navigating, I turned off the highway to follow the overgrown jeep trail to the grave of Chief Crowfoot. It seemed fitting, as the last rays of golden light flooded the plains, to pay homage to this great man, this great Blackfoot leader.

For many people in Alberta, “Crowfoot” is just a name that is somehow connected to First Nation’s culture. However, at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park you will learn “the truth,” and the significance about Chief Crowfoot, why he chose peace, why he persuaded the Blackfoot people to embrace change, and why, ultimately, he should be honoured. But, in terms of what you will discover at Blackfoot Crossing, learning about Chief Crowfoot is just the tip of the iceberg.

Siksika Blackfoot dancers standing in front of the Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park Interpretive Centre.

Photo Courtesy of Travel Alberta / Katie Goldie

Unquestionably, standing by his grave, on a wind-swept bluff high above the sacred site where Treaty 7 was signed in 1877, was a powerful conclusion to the day. But, as we had already discovered, a visit to Blackfoot Crossing is a potent experience that can be savoured for many different reasons.

A day spent at Blackfoot Crossing is a journey, an adventure, which incorporates a wide variety of Blackfoot themes. From sampling traditional aboriginal food to strolling the sacred site (both indoors and outside along the valley trails), there is much to see and do.

Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park – which features a gorgeous, $27-million dollar building, clinging to the bluff overlooking the sacred treaty-signing site – pays homage to the Blackfoot people, their history, their leaders, culture, and the amazing stories that have not only shaped the Blackfoot people, but our entire country of Canada.

Photo Courtesy of Travel Alberta

One of the highlights is exploring the impressive exhibit hall and viewing the many spectacular exhibits that document everything from daily life on the Great Plains to fierce battles and historic massacres. The nomadic lifestyle of the Blackfoot, influenced greatly by the movement of the buffalo herds, is a dominant theme. From their cozy tipi homes to their holistic use of the buffalo, there is much to learn and appreciate from their ways. Sacred medicine wheels, buffalo jumps, dancing, drum circles, and interaction with other tribes, fur traders, and white settlers who invaded their territory is depicted through videos, historic pictures, artefacts, and impressive displays.

On our visit, a local Siksika guide, Grant, led us through the galleries and provided plenty of additional stories and insight (especially on the famous signing of Treaty 7). This added greatly to the experience and I would highly recommend requesting a local tour guide to walk you through the exhibits and provide explanations that will truly go above and beyond. Guides are available throughout the day at only $3 per person.

Other indoor attractions include a visit to the theater (short documentary-style shows run throughout the day), dancers, drummers, songs, and storytellers. It’s best to call in advance for the daily schedule. Additional fees may apply for some events and activities.

Photo Courtesy of Travel Alberta / Katie Goldie

Regardless of how you choose to explore Blackfoot Crossing, this 62,000 sq.ft., eco-friendly building, contains numerous architectural highlights that reflect Blackfoot themes and symbols, and it’s fascinating to explore. Thanks to its numerous tipi structures, symbols, prairie colours, and the feeling that you’re on the edge of a ravine on a buffalo jump, the building is an architectural metaphor of the Blackfoot people.

But, to get the most out of your day at Blackfoot Crossing, a self-guided outdoor tour of the site is a must. This sacred site along the banks of the Bow River is truly stunning in its natural beauty. A traditional meeting place for the Blackfoot people (and a river crossing, hence the name!), the park contains many trails, overlooks, monuments, archeological dig sites, and interpretive signage. There is also an ancient earthlodge site and a tipi village where you can book an overnight stay! Maps for your self-guided tour are available in the gift shop.

Photo Courtesy of Travel Alberta / Katie Goldie

Regardless of which path(s) you take at Blackfoot Crossing, you will certainly work up a healthy appetite! Thankfully, in 2019 the cafe will unveil a brand new menu that will feature plenty of tasty and traditional Blackfoot food – Bison burgers and bannock, anyone? Indeed, all five of your senses will be engaged on a visit to Blackfoot Crossing! For more information visit: blackfootcrossing.ca

By: Andrew Penner