Where Is the Bighorn Medicine Wheel Located? Unveiling the Mysteries of a Sacred Site
For centuries, the Bighorn Medicine Wheel has captivated the imaginations of those who encounter it. This enigmatic structure, perched high in the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming, is a testament to the sophisticated knowledge and spiritual practices of the Indigenous peoples who created it. But where exactly is this remarkable site located, and what secrets does it hold?
A Remote and Majestic Setting
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is situated in the Bighorn National Forest, in the northeastern part of Wyoming. More precisely, it’s found on the summit of Medicine Mountain, at an elevation of approximately 9,642 feet (2,940 meters) above sea level. This remote location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, peaks, and the vast expanse of the sky.
Getting There: A Journey into the Mountains
Reaching the Bighorn Medicine Wheel is an adventure in itself. The site is accessible during the summer months, typically from late June to mid-September, due to the harsh winter conditions and heavy snowfall that close the access roads. Here’s how you can get there:
- Base Towns: The nearest towns with accommodations and services are Sheridan and Lovell, Wyoming.
- Road Access: From either town, you’ll drive to the Medicine Wheel Passage, a scenic route that leads into the Bighorn National Forest. The primary route is via US-14A, a winding mountain road.
- Final Stretch: The last few miles to the Medicine Wheel site are on a gravel road, which is generally passable by most vehicles. However, it’s advisable to check road conditions and be prepared for changing weather.
- On Foot: Once you reach the parking area, there’s a short, uphill walk to the Medicine Wheel itself. The trail is well-maintained, but the altitude can make the hike challenging.
The Wheel’s Physical Description
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is a striking arrangement of stones that forms a circular pattern. Here are some key features:
- Diameter: The wheel has a diameter of approximately 75 feet (23 meters).
- Central Cairn: In the center of the circle is a cairn, a pile of stones that likely served as a focal point for ceremonies.
- Stone Radii: From the central cairn, 28 spokes or radii extend outward to the perimeter of the circle.
- Outer Ring: The perimeter is marked by a ring of stones, completing the circular shape.
- Stone Cairns: Outside the main circle, there are additional cairns.
The Mystery of Its Purpose
The exact purpose of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel remains a subject of ongoing research and debate. However, it’s widely believed to have served multiple functions:
- Ceremonial Site: The Medicine Wheel was undoubtedly a place of spiritual significance. Indigenous people likely used it for ceremonies, rituals, and vision quests.
- Astronomical Observatory: Some scholars believe that the Medicine Wheel was also an astronomical observatory. The placement of the stones appears to align with the rising and setting points of the sun and certain stars during significant times of the year, such as the summer solstice.
- Calendrical Device: The wheel may have served as a calendar, helping to track the passage of time and important events in the natural world.
- Educational Tool: It’s possible that the Medicine Wheel was also used to teach important knowledge about astronomy, spirituality, and the natural world.
Connecting with the Cosmos
The potential astronomical alignments of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel are particularly intriguing. The wheel’s layout may have been designed to align with the following:
- Summer Solstice: The rising sun on the summer solstice (around June 21st) aligns with a specific stone cairn, marking the longest day of the year.
- Other Celestial Events: Alignments with the rising and setting points of certain stars, such as Sirius, Aldebaran, and Rigel, suggest a sophisticated understanding of celestial mechanics.
- Lunar Cycles: Some researchers believe that the Medicine Wheel may also have been used to track lunar cycles.
Cultural Significance and Indigenous Perspectives
It is vital to acknowledge that the Bighorn Medicine Wheel is a sacred site for many Indigenous peoples, particularly the Crow, Cheyenne, and Shoshone. Their ancestors created the wheel and continue to hold it in high regard.
- Respect and Preservation: Visitors are encouraged to approach the site with respect and to avoid disturbing the stones or the surrounding environment.
- Spiritual Connection: Many Indigenous people visit the Medicine Wheel to connect with their ancestors, conduct ceremonies, and seek spiritual guidance.
- Ongoing Dialogue: Ongoing conversations are taking place between Indigenous communities, archaeologists, and other stakeholders to understand and preserve the site’s significance.
Preservation and Stewardship
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is protected as a National Historic Landmark. Various organizations and government agencies are involved in preserving the site, including the U.S. Forest Service and the Wyoming State Historic Preservation Office. Efforts are underway to:
- Protect the Stones: Ensure the long-term preservation of the stone structure.
- Educate Visitors: Provide information about the site’s history, significance, and proper etiquette.
- Collaborate with Indigenous Communities: Involve Indigenous people in the stewardship and management of the site.
Visiting the Bighorn Medicine Wheel
If you plan to visit the Bighorn Medicine Wheel, here are some tips to help you have a meaningful and respectful experience:
- Plan Your Trip: Check weather conditions and road closures before you go.
- Be Prepared: Bring water, sunscreen, appropriate clothing, and sturdy shoes.
- Respect the Site: Avoid touching or moving the stones.
- Be Mindful: Maintain a respectful and quiet atmosphere.
- Learn More: Read educational materials and talk to park rangers or local experts.
- Photography: Take photos but avoid commercial photography or drone usage.
A Place of Wonder
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel stands as a testament to the ingenuity, spiritual depth, and astronomical knowledge of the Indigenous peoples who created it. As you stand at the summit of Medicine Mountain, gazing at the intricate pattern of stones, you can’t help but feel a sense of wonder and connection to something far greater than yourself. It’s a place where the past, present, and future seem to converge, and where the mysteries of the cosmos are whispered on the wind.
Conclusion
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is located high in the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming, a remote and sacred site accessible during the summer months. Its precise location, its intricate design, and its potential astronomical alignments offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Indigenous peoples. As you embark on your journey to discover the Bighorn Medicine Wheel, approach with reverence, and you will leave with a deep appreciation for its enduring legacy.
