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Big Hole National Battlefield, Wisdom, MT
SightseeingHistory BuffFree

Big Hole National Battlefield

16425 Highway 43 West · Wisdom, MT

Why you should go…

This 655-acre park preserves the site of the Battle of the Big Hole, fought on August 9 and 10, 1877, during the Nez Perce War. It was the largest battle of the five-month conflict and the ground remains deeply meaningful to the Nez Perce people. The visitor center has exhibits and a 26-minute film that sets the scene. Three trails leave from the lower parking lot to the main areas of the battlefield, with free trail guides at each trailhead.

  • #national battlefield
  • #nez perce history
  • #hiking trails
  • #national park service

Good to know

General sightseeing guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • The forecast is part of the ticket

    Haze, low cloud, and rain flatten a view. Clear-day visits are worth rearranging your plans for.

  • Golden hour sells out first

    Sunset slots at observation decks and cruises are the first to go, so book those further ahead.

  • Dress a layer warmer

    It is always breezier up high and out on the water than it feels at street level.

  • Timed entry is common

    Plenty of landmarks release tickets in windows rather than at the door, so check before you walk over.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Big Hole National Battlefield, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Outdoor Adventure

    Montana Zipline Adventures

    $50+

    Montana's longest zipline course, seven lines totaling over 9,300 feet through the Pintler Wilderness.

    48 mi awaySwitch it up: Sport & Outdoor

  • Stay
    Family Favorite

    Fairmont Hot Springs Resort

    $50+

    Year-round mineral hot springs resort near Anaconda with four spring-fed pools, a waterslide, golf and lodging.

    48 mi awaySwitch it up: Stay

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Anaconda

    Free

    Historic copper-smelting town in southwest Montana between Yellowstone and Glacier, with a downtown visitor center.

    48 mi awayMore like this

  • Shopping
    Local Gem

    Sapphire Gallery & Sweet Palace

    Free

    Neighboring Philipsburg, Montana shops for hands-on sapphire mining and jewelry, next to a handmade fudge and candy store.

    51 mi awaySwitch it up: Shopping