Big Hole National Battlefield is a 1-paw park
Set in western Montana near the North Fork of the Big Hole River, Big Hole National Battlefield memorializes the men, women and children of the nimi-pu (Nez Perce) and the 7th Infantry soldiers who fought in this battle. Sixty to ninety men, women and children were killed in their sleep or as they fled the dawn attack on their camp. The ensuing battle was a tragic turning point in the Nez Perce War of 1877. The site is sacred ground with many unmarked graves. Offerings have been left by nimi-pu in memory of their ancestors.
The park gets a 1-paw rating since none of the three trails are dog friendly. However the paved areas are pet friendly but be aware of traffic. The park has no campgrounds but there are some located less than 10 miles away. A picnic area is available at the trailhead.
The Trails
- Nez Perce Camp Trail – This is the easiest trail with no elevation gain. The 1.6 mile round-trip circles the camp with its tipi poles representing the camp location which was burned during the attack.
- Siege Area Trail – A round-trip of 1.2 miles climbs 50 feet overall. The trail over looks the valley and has a monument to the Seventh U.S. infantry soldiers of which 31 were killed and 38 wounded.
- The Howitzer Trail – The most challenging trail in the park climbs 320 feet and is a 0.8 mile spur off the Siege Area Trail. It leads to a replica Howitzer of the one used to attack the camp. It was captured by nimi-pu warriors as they fought to buy time for their families to escape.
The park’s pet policy.
