Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Agency headquarters for the Blackfeet Reservation, home to Montana's largest tribe,
Browning (population 1,026, elevation 4,377 feet) has retained much of the culture of the
Blackfeet people. The setting is spectacular, at the eastern edge of Glacier National Park,
but the town doesn't offer much in the way of striking architecture or high-end hotels. What
it does offer, though, is an exceptional opportunity to learn about and experience Blackfeet
culture. In addition to the significant Museum of the Plains Indian, there are a number of
annual events open to visitors as well as tours given by extremely well-versed local guides.
There is even a place where guests can camp in magnificently decorated tipis, feast on gour-
met regional cuisine, and enjoy an authentic Blackfeet experience.
Sights
Led by Blackfeet tribe member, historian, and well-known artist Darryl Norman,
Blackfeet
Cultural History Tours
(406/338-2787,
www.blackfeetculturecamp.com
, half-day tours
for 1-4 people from $120) offer a remarkable opportunity to explore the reservation and its
history. Norman operates as a step-on guide, joining guests in their own vehicles and taking
them to various buffalo jumps, tipi rings, medicine lodges, and historic sites.
Just west of Browning at the junction of U.S. Highway 2 and U.S. Highway 89 is the
Museum of the Plains Indian
(406/338-2230,
www.iacb.doi.gov
,
9am-4:45pm Tues.-Sat.,
June-Sept., 10am-4:30pm daily Oct.-May, $4 adults, $3 seniors over 65, $1 children under
6, free Oct.-May). The museum exhibits the arts and crafts of the Northern Plains Indians.
The permanent collection highlights the diversity of tribal arts and displays artifacts from
everyday life, including clothing, weapons, toys, and household implements. There are two
galleries dedicated to showcasing contemporary Native American artists. During summer,
painted tipis are assembled on the grounds.
Festivals and Events
Held annually the second week in July for four days, the
North American Indian Days
(406/338-7406,
www.blackfeetcountry.com/naid.html
)
is an excellent powwow giving in-
sight into the Blackfeet culture and traditions. Events include contest dancing, games, sport-
ing events, drum contests, and plenty of food.
Accommodations
Browning itself doesn't offer a lot in the way of accommodations; the best bets are toward
Glacier National Park. Just outside town is the interesting
Aspenwood Resort
(U.S. 89,
9.5 miles west of Browning, 406/338-3009,
www.aspenwoodresort.com
,
suites from $95),
