GREAT FALLS – Watching the sun sink over Square Butte, with the sky painted in a palette worthy of a Charlie Russell canvas. Enjoying a hike to the top of the buffalo jump with family and friends. Spotting a coyote loping through the sage or a herd of pronghorn grazing along the trail. Pondering the First Peoples who created the ancient tepee rings on the prairie and learning how they used the buffalo jump and processed the animals to sustain their families. Taking time to sit quietly and watch the cold moonlight spill over the stark and rugged Birdtail Hills.
These are the experiences that have made the Sunset and Full Moon Hikes at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park increasingly popular, according to park manager Clark Aasom. Aasom has held the manager position at the park located south of Great Falls since 2019. He and his team schedule these hikes several times each year when the sunset and full‑moonrise coincide on a weekend evening.
"People love the chance to experience both the sunset and the moonrise during the same hike, and at such a beautiful place," Aasom said. "And the staff at the park really love the opportunity to share this place with our visitors."
It takes about an hour to hike up across the prairie and weave through the rocky edges of the buffalo jump before emerging on top. The moderately difficult hike is about 3 miles in length, and it takes just over 2 hours to complete the round trip out and back. Along the way, hikers discover the park's history and deep cultural significance to First Peoples, making the evening all the more meaningful.
"Combining the historical and cultural significance of this place with the chance to see it during the prettiest time of the day is an opportunity that I wish everyone could experience," Aasom added.
Sunset and Full Moon Hikes are scheduled this fall on Sept. 26 and Oct. 24, beginning at 6 p.m. on both days. There is a $4 fee, and each hike is limited to 25 participants.
For more information or to register, please call 406-866-2217, or email firstpeoplesbuffalojump@mt.gov.