Big Hole National Battlefield

Big Hole National Battlefield is located in southwestern Montana, near the town of Wisdom. It was established as a national monument in 1883 and later designated as a national battlefield in 1993. The park encompasses 1,010 acres and serves as a memorial to the tragic events that unfolded during the Nez Perce War of 1877.

The historical background of Big Hole National Battlefield is deeply rooted in the clash between the United States government and the Nez Perce people. In 1877, the Nez Perce band, led by Chief Joseph, was forced to flee their ancestral lands in an attempt to reach Canada and seek refuge. However, they were pursued by the U.S. Army and engaged in several battles along their 1,200-mile journey.

One of the most significant battles occurred at Big Hole, where Chief Joseph's band, consisting of approximately 750 individuals, was camped. On August 9-10, 1877, Colonel John Gibbon's troops attacked the Nez Perce camp, resulting in a bloody engagement. The battle ended with heavy casualties on both sides, leaving about 60 U.S. soldiers dead and nearly 90 Nez Perce warriors and noncombatants killed, including women and children.

Today, visitors to Big Hole National Battlefield can explore the site and gain insight into this pivotal moment in American history. The park offers a visitor center with exhibits that tell the story of the Nez Perce War, providing a comprehensive overview of the events that unfolded. Additionally, a 1.5-mile self-guided trail allows visitors to walk through the battlefield, following interpretive signs that detail the battle's progression.

While in the vicinity of Big Hole National Battlefield, visitors can also explore other attractions nearby. The town of Wisdom offers lodging, dining, and shopping opportunities, enabling visitors to further immerse themselves in the local culture. Nature enthusiasts can venture into nearby national forests, such as Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest or Bitterroot National Forest, offering stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

In summary, Big Hole National Battlefield in Montana commemorates the tragic events of the Nez Perce War in 1877. With its visitor center and self-guided trail, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of this significant historical moment. Surrounding attractions, such as the town of Wisdom and nearby national forests, provide additional opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.

Big Hole National Battlefield is located in western Montana, nestled within the scenic and vast expanse of the Big Hole Valley. Situated in Beaverhead County, the battlefield lies approximately 6 miles west of Wisdom and around 10 miles northeast of the small town of Jackson. This historically significant site is encompassed by breathtaking mountains and sprawling meadows, providing visitors with a picturesque backdrop as they explore the preserved landscape. The valley itself is characterized by the meandering waters of the Big Hole River, which further enhances the natural beauty of the area. With its remote location and serene surroundings, Big Hole National Battlefield offers a tranquil and immersive experience for those seeking to learn about the history and indigenous cultures of the region.

Address & Contact

16425 Highway 43 West
Wisdom, MT 59761
Driving Directions
Phone: 4066893155
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Big Hole National Battlefield would be in the months of April, May, or June. During these months, the average maximum temperatures range from 50°F to 70°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation remains below 2.5 inches, ensuring a relatively dry experience. These months also attract a moderate number of visitors, allowing for a more peaceful and less crowded visit.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Big Hole National Battlefield are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Gift Shop and Souvenirs Arts and Culture Hiking Front-Country Hiking Fishing Skiing Cross-Country Skiing Snowshoeing Freshwater Fishing Cultural Demonstrations

Topics

Learn about these topics at Big Hole National Battlefield: Native American Heritage Tragic Events Westward Expansion Trails Military US Army Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite Infantry and Militia Battlefields Monuments and Memorials Wars and Conflicts Indigenous and Native Warrior Tribal Conflicts Indian and Frontier Wars Massacres

Visitor Centers

Visitor Center at the Big Hole National Battlefield

The park's visitor center offers museum exhibits, a film, and a book sales area. The award-winning film Weet'uciklitukt: There's No Turning Back, Battle at Big Hole provides an introduction to the Nez Perce Flight of 1877 and the battle that took place at this site. The film is shown throughout the day and is close-captioned. Audio and braille guides are available upon request. Park grounds are open sunrise to sunset daily.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Visitor Center at the Big Hole National Battlefield.

Campsites within or near Big Hole National Battlefield

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).