Medicine Wheel/Medicine Mountain National Historic Landmark Photos
The Medicine Wheel/Medicine Mountain National Historic Landmark is located in the Bighorn National Forest in northern Wyoming. The site is a sacred place for many Native American tribes, and it is believed to have been used for thousands of years for religious ceremonies and astronomical observations. The Medicine Wheel itself is a large stone circle, surrounded by cairns and other rock formations, that is estimated to be between 3000 and 5000 years old.
History of the Medicine Wheel/Medicine Mountain National Historic Landmark
The history of the Medicine Wheel/Medicine Mountain National Historic Landmark is complex and fascinating. The site was first described by non-Native Americans in the late 1800s, but it had been known to Native Americans for many centuries before that. The site has been the subject of much study and speculation over the years, and it remains a source of fascination for archaeologists, anthropologists, and spiritual seekers alike.
One of the most interesting aspects of the Medicine Wheel is its relationship to astronomy. The wheel is believed to have been used to mark the solstices and equinoxes, and to track the movements of the moon and stars. The site is aligned with the cardinal directions, and the stones are arranged in a particular pattern that is thought to have symbolic meaning.
Visiting the Medicine Wheel/Medicine Mountain National Historic Landmark
If you are interested in visiting the Medicine Wheel/Medicine Mountain National Historic Landmark, there are a few things you should know. First of all, the site is located in a remote part of the Bighorn National Forest, and it can be difficult to access. There are no paved roads leading to the site, and the last few miles of the journey must be made on foot.
Once you arrive at the site, you will be struck by the beauty and power of the Medicine Wheel. The circle itself is about 80 feet in diameter, and it is surrounded by a series of cairns and other rock formations. The stones of the wheel are arranged in a pattern that is both intricate and mysterious, and it is easy to imagine the ancient ceremonies that took place here.
It is important to remember that the Medicine Wheel/Medicine Mountain National Historic Landmark is a sacred site for many Native American tribes. Visitors are asked to treat the site with respect, and to refrain from climbing on the rocks or disturbing the cairns. There are also restrictions on photography and other forms of documentation, so it is a good idea to check with the local authorities before you visit.
Conclusion
The Medicine Wheel/Medicine Mountain National Historic Landmark is a unique and powerful site that has been revered by Native Americans for centuries. Whether you are interested in the site for its historical significance, its astronomical connections, or its spiritual power, a visit to the Medicine Wheel is sure to be a memorable and moving experience.