Where Is the Bighorn Medicine Wheel?
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel, a remarkable and enigmatic Native American archaeological site, sits perched atop Medicine Mountain in the Bighorn National Forest of Wyoming, USA. Its remote location and unique design have fascinated archaeologists, astronomers, and spiritual seekers for generations. While the exact purpose of the wheel remains a mystery, its significance as a place of ceremony, observation, and cultural expression is undeniable.
Location and Access
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is located in the Bighorn National Forest, approximately 40 miles east of Lovell, Wyoming. It’s situated on the summit of Medicine Mountain, at an elevation of around 9,642 feet (2,940 meters). The site is only accessible during the summer months, typically from late June through mid-September, due to the heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions during the rest of the year.
Reaching the Medicine Wheel involves a scenic but rugged drive along gravel roads. From Lovell, take US Highway 14A east towards Burgess Junction. Follow signs for the Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark, which will lead you onto Forest Road 10. The final stretch of the road is a steep and winding climb to the summit.
Visitors should be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions, even during the summer. Temperatures can fluctuate significantly, and sudden storms are common. It’s essential to bring warm clothing, sturdy footwear, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
The Structure
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is a circular structure made of stones, approximately 75 feet (23 meters) in diameter. It comprises a central cairn (a pile of rocks), 28 radiating spokes that extend outward like the spokes of a wagon wheel, and six outer cairns located around the circumference. The cairns and spokes are constructed from local limestone rocks.
The wheel’s design is remarkably precise, and its alignment with celestial events is a notable feature. The spokes and cairns are believed to align with the rising and setting of the sun and certain stars, particularly during the summer solstice. This suggests that the Medicine Wheel was used for astronomical observations and tracking the passage of time.
The Purpose
The exact purpose of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel remains a subject of debate and speculation. However, several theories have been proposed, drawing on archaeological evidence, Native American oral traditions, and astronomical calculations:
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Astronomical Observatory: The precise alignment of the spokes and cairns with celestial events suggests that the wheel was used for astronomical observations. It may have been used to track the solstices, equinoxes, and the movements of specific stars and constellations. This information would have been crucial for agriculture, hunting, and ceremonial practices.
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Ceremonial Site: Native American tribes, including the Crow, Cheyenne, and Lakota, have long held the Medicine Wheel in high regard as a sacred site. It is believed that the wheel was used for ceremonies, vision quests, and other spiritual practices. The circular design may represent the cycle of life, the universe, and the interconnectedness of all things.
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Calendar: The Medicine Wheel could have served as a calendar, helping Native Americans track the seasons and plan their activities accordingly. The alignment with the sun and stars would have provided a precise means of marking the passage of time.
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Healing and Rituals: The wheel’s remote location and sacred nature may have made it an ideal location for healing rituals and ceremonies. The structure could have been used to harness the spiritual energy of the land and connect with the natural world.
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Cultural Significance: The Medicine Wheel served as a physical manifestation of Native American cultural beliefs, worldview, and connection to the cosmos. The structure’s presence served as a reminder of the importance of tradition, spirituality, and harmony with nature.
Historical Context
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is believed to have been constructed by Native American tribes between 150 and 300 years ago. The exact builders and the specific tribal affiliations remain uncertain, but it’s likely that multiple groups used the site over time.
The wheel was rediscovered by non-Native Americans in the early 20th century, and it has since been studied by archaeologists, astronomers, and other researchers. In 1970, the site was designated a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its significance and protecting it from further damage.
Visiting the Site
When visiting the Bighorn Medicine Wheel, visitors are expected to respect the site’s sacredness and adhere to certain guidelines:
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Stay on designated paths: To avoid disturbing the fragile environment and the archaeological remains.
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Do not remove any artifacts or objects: The site is protected by law, and any disturbance is prohibited.
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Be respectful of Native American beliefs: Recognize the site’s spiritual significance and avoid making inappropriate comments or engaging in disrespectful behavior.
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Leave no trace: Pack out everything you pack in, and minimize your impact on the environment.
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Consider visiting with a guide: A guided tour can provide valuable insights into the history, cultural significance, and astronomical alignments of the Medicine Wheel.
Preservation and Conservation
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is a fragile and vulnerable site. The harsh weather conditions, natural erosion, and human impact can threaten the structure’s integrity. Efforts are underway to preserve and conserve the Medicine Wheel, including:
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Monitoring and assessment: Regular monitoring of the site to assess its condition and identify potential threats.
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Stabilization and repair: Implementing measures to stabilize and repair the structure, such as repairing damaged cairns and spokes.
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Education and outreach: Raising awareness of the Medicine Wheel’s significance and promoting responsible visitation.
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Consultation with Native American tribes: Working with Native American tribes to understand their perspectives and incorporate their knowledge into preservation efforts.
Conclusion
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is a unique and important archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Native American tribes. Its mysterious design, astronomical alignments, and remote location make it a fascinating destination for those interested in history, astronomy, and spirituality.
Visiting the Medicine Wheel provides a unique opportunity to connect with the past and appreciate the ingenuity and wisdom of the people who built it. By respecting the site’s sacredness and following the guidelines for responsible visitation, we can help ensure that this remarkable place continues to inspire and educate future generations.
