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Big Hole National Battlefield
The Battle of the Big Hole on August 9 and 10, 1877, was a turning point of the Nez Perce War, a five-month war in which U.S. Army forces tried to place one third of the Nez Perce tribe on a reservation. The fighting began in White Bird Canyon in Idaho and had a dramatic ending in the Bear Paw Mountains of Montana.
Self-guiding tours take you to many points on the Battlefield. A short drive to the lower parking area connects with foot trails to the Nez Perce Camp, the Siege Area, and the Howitzer Capture site. The walks each take about an hour. Ranger conducted programs are offered in summer; introductory presentations and exhibits are available year-round.
Fishing is allowed within the National Battlefield and the National Forest as provided by Montana law. Hunting is prohibited. There are several picnic tables in the Battle Area near the lower parking lot. No camping or overnight facilities are provided, but several campgrounds are located nearby. Ask at the Visitor Center for details.
The Visitor Center offers basic orientation through an audiovisual program and exhibits, including the original mountain Howitzer from the battle.
The Battlefield is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day and from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. during the remainder of the year.
Facilities such as a gasoline station, a grocery store, restaurants and lodging (although limited) can be found in Wisdom, Montana. There are more complete services in Butte, Montana, to the northeast, or Salmon, Idaho, to the west.
Activities
Cultural, Education, Exhibit, Fly Fishing, Hiking, History, Museum, Native Art, Picnicking, Sightseeing, Tour
Services and Amenities
Books, Interpreter, Pay Telephone, Public Restroom, Tour, Trail, Unescorted Tour
Directions
The Battlefield is located 10 miles west of Wisdom, Montana, on Montana Highway 43.
The nearest airport is at Butte, Montana, 75 miles east, or Missoula, Montana, 110 miles north.
Hours / Season of Operation
Season:
All Year
Hours:
Winter: Daily 10:00am - 5:00pm
Summer: Daily 9:00am - 6:00pm
Closed New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas.
Appointments required for groups.
Contact Information
Big Hole National Battlefield
Mailing Address:
PO Box 237
Wisdom,
MT 59761
Phone: 406-689-3155
Fax: 406-689-3151
Payment / Reservation Information
Payment Methods:
Cash, Personal Check (In State), Personal Check (Out Of State), Travelers Checks
Discount Types:
N/A
Reservations:
Group Reservations Required, Walk-Ins Welcome
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