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The Battlefield and Historical Park features a visitor center and
museum overlooking the Nez Perce encampment and battlefield. The museum
displays photographs and personal belongings of some of the participants.
A video offers insight into the Nez Perce War of 1877 and describes the
events. Visitors may take a self-guided walking tour of the encampment and
battlefield, and also the siege area where the soldiers were pinned down
by warrior sharpshooters until the Nez Perce women, children and elders
could escape to safety. The Battlefield and Historical Park is located on
the north side of Montana State Highway 43 between Chief Joseph Pass, elevation
7,264, and the town of Wisdom in Southwest Montana.
Self-guiding tours take you to many points on the Battlefield. A short
drive to the lower parking area connects with foot trails to the Nez Perce
Camp, the Siege Area, and the Howitzer Capture site. The walks each take
about an hour. Ranger conducted programs are offered in summer; introductory
presentations and exhibits are available year-round .Fishing is allowed
within the National Battlefield and the National Forest as provided by
Montana law. Hunting is prohibited. There are several picnic tables in
the Battle Area near the lower parking lot. No camping or overnight facilities
are provided, but several campgrounds are located nearby. Ask at the Visitor
Center for details.
Park memorializes the Nez Perce Indians, the soldiers of the 7th U.S.
Infantry, and the Bitterroot Volunteers who clashed at the Battle of the
Big Hole in August of 1877 -- a dramatic episode in the long struggle
to confine the Nez Perce and other Indians to reservations
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