Several April events at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park several upcoming April events.

Full moon hike-April 12: Learn about the history of the park and how the Buffalo Jump was used for hunting. The hike will begin at 7 p.m. at the visitor center. Hikers will watch the sunset during the hike up to the top of the Buffalo Jump with plenty of time to stop and take photos. The moon will rise about 8:15 p.m. as we arrive at the top. The hike will end around 9 p.m. after hiking back down to the visitor center.

There is a $4 fee per hiker for this event with 25 spaces available. Arrive at the visitor center 15 minutes early to pay the fee and prepare for the hike. It is a three-mile loop and is a moderately strenuous hike with about 400 feet of elevation gain to the top. Dress for the weather with hiking boots, jackets, snacks, and a water bottle. Call 406-866-2217 or email firstpeoplesbuffalojump@mt.gov to register.

Bear aware program-April 19: Learn about bears and how to recreate safely in bear country from FWP staff. Bears are a fact of life here in Montana and knowing what to do during a bear encounter is important for everyone that enjoys Montana’s outdoors. This program will be at the First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park Visitor Center starting at 10:30 a.m. and lasting until noon. This program is free and no registration is required.

Star gazing-April 25: Visit First Peoples Buffalo Jump for an open star gazing event from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the park’s visitor center. The Great Falls Astronomy Club will be present to assist in this event. Bring your own telescope or look into the night sky through one of the park’s telescopes. This will be an informal program with most of time dedicated to viewing a variety of night sky objects. There is a possibility that this event may be cancelled due to clouds or inclement weather. Contact the park if you have any questions. Please bring a red tinted flashlight or headlamp for use and dress warm for an evening looking at stars.

The park is 3.5 miles north of Ulm, just off Interstate 15 at Exit 270. To contact the park, call 406-866-2217 or email firstpeoplesbuffalojump@mt.gov.

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Jenn Rowell