Bighorn Medicine Wheel: A Sacred Mystery in the Wyoming Sky
Perched atop a windswept mountain in the Bighorn National Forest of Wyoming, the Bighorn Medicine Wheel stands as a testament to the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of the Native American tribes who once roamed this land. This enigmatic stone structure, with its intricate pattern of rock cairns and radiating spokes, has captivated the imaginations of archaeologists, historians, and spiritual seekers alike. Its purpose remains a subject of debate, but its significance as a sacred site is undeniable.
Discovery and Construction
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is located on Medicine Mountain, at an altitude of approximately 9,642 feet (2,940 meters). The exact origins of the wheel are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have been constructed by indigenous peoples between 1200 and 1700 CE. The wheel is a circular structure, approximately 80 feet (24 meters) in diameter, made up of a central cairn (a pile of stones) surrounded by a ring of stones. From the central cairn, 28 spokes radiate outward, connecting to the outer ring. Six additional cairns are located around the outer ring, adding further complexity to the design.
The wheel’s construction involved meticulous planning and labor. The stones used were likely gathered from the surrounding area and carefully placed to create the intricate pattern. The builders would have had to contend with the harsh mountain environment, including extreme weather conditions and limited resources.
Possible Interpretations and Purposes
The exact purpose of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel remains unknown, but several theories have been proposed. One popular interpretation is that the wheel served as an astronomical observatory, aligning with the rising and setting points of certain stars and celestial bodies. The cairns and spokes may have been used to mark the solstices, equinoxes, and the positions of prominent stars. This suggests that the builders had a sophisticated understanding of astronomy and used the wheel to track the passage of time and to make predictions about seasonal changes.
Another theory suggests that the wheel was a ceremonial site, used for rituals, ceremonies, and spiritual practices. The wheel’s design may have represented a sacred map of the universe or a symbol of interconnectedness and balance. The central cairn could have been a focal point for prayer and meditation, while the spokes may have represented pathways to different realms of the spiritual world.
Some researchers believe that the wheel may have served multiple purposes, combining astronomical observations with ceremonial functions. It may have been a place where spiritual leaders could observe the movements of the heavens and interpret their significance for the community.
Connections to Native American Tribes
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is associated with several Native American tribes, including the Crow, Cheyenne, and Arapaho. These tribes have deep spiritual and cultural connections to the site, viewing it as a sacred place of power and significance. They have passed down oral traditions that speak of the wheel’s importance and its role in their cultural heritage.
The Crow tribe, in particular, has strong ties to the wheel. They believe that the wheel was built by their ancestors and that it represents a sacred connection to the spirit world. The Crow often visit the site to perform ceremonies, pray, and pay respect to their ancestors.
Modern Significance and Preservation
Today, the Bighorn Medicine Wheel is a protected historical site, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. It attracts visitors from around the world who are drawn to its mystery and beauty. The site is considered sacred by Native American tribes, and visitors are asked to respect the cultural significance of the area.
Preservation efforts are ongoing to protect the wheel from the effects of erosion, vandalism, and environmental factors. The Forest Service works closely with Native American tribes to ensure that the site is managed in a way that honors its cultural significance and protects it for future generations.
Visiting the Bighorn Medicine Wheel
Visiting the Bighorn Medicine Wheel is an unforgettable experience. The journey to the site is as significant as the destination itself. The winding road up to Medicine Mountain offers breathtaking views of the Bighorn Mountains and the surrounding landscape.
To visit the wheel, you can drive up to the parking area and then hike a short distance to the site. Be prepared for the high altitude and the potential for extreme weather conditions, including strong winds and sudden changes in temperature. It’s important to wear appropriate clothing, including sturdy hiking boots, layers of warm clothing, and a hat and gloves.
Visitors are encouraged to respect the cultural significance of the site by refraining from touching or removing any of the stones. It’s also important to be mindful of the environment and to pack out any trash you generate.
A Symbol of Mystery and Wonder
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel remains an enigma, a testament to the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of the Native American tribes who built it. Its precise purpose may never be fully known, but its enduring presence on the mountaintop continues to inspire awe and wonder. The wheel stands as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the Native American people and the importance of preserving sacred sites for future generations. It invites us to contemplate the mysteries of the universe and to appreciate the interconnectedness of all things. As you stand within the circle of stones, beneath the vast Wyoming sky, you can’t help but feel a sense of reverence and a profound connection to the past, the present, and the enduring power of the human spirit. The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is more than just a historical site; it is a symbol of mystery, wonder, and the enduring legacy of those who came before us. It is a place where the past and present converge, inviting us to reflect on our place in the cosmos and to appreciate the enduring power of the human spirit.
