Big Horn Medicine Wheel
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Description: The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is a significant Native American archaeological and cultural site located in the Bighorn National Forest of Wyoming. Here are some key details about the Bighorn Medicine Wheel: Location: The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is situated at an elevation of approximately 9,642 feet (2,939 meters) in the Bighorn Mountains of north-central Wyoming. It is within the Bighorn National Forest and is surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the mountainous region. Cultural Significance: The Medicine Wheel is a sacred site for several Native American tribes, including the Plains Indians. It is believed to have been constructed and used for spiritual and ceremonial purposes for over a thousand years. The site holds great cultural and historical significance. Physical Structure: The Medicine Wheel consists of a central stone cairn (a pile of rocks) surrounded by a circle of stones, with additional spokes radiating out from the central cairn. The structure resembles a wagon wheel, and it is quite large, with a diameter of around 80 feet. Astronomical Alignment: One of the remarkable aspects of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel is its alignment with astronomical events. The spokes of the wheel align with the rising and setting of the sun, moon, and stars at specific times of the year, which suggests that it was used for astronomical observations and ceremonies. Visiting the Site: The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is accessible via a moderately strenuous hike. Visitors are encouraged to treat the site with respect and follow guidelines for preserving its cultural and archaeological significance. It's advisable to check with the Bighorn National Forest or local authorities for information about visiting the site, including trail conditions and seasonal access. Interpretive Center: There is an interpretive center near the Medicine Wheel that provides information about its history, cultural significance, and the Native American tribes associated with the site.