In the picturesque, rolling foothills just east of Glacier National Park, the culture and traditions of the Blackfeet Nation thrive. The largest community on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, Browning is a cultural center where museums, shops, galleries and annual celebrations preserve the Blackfeet way of life and give travelers a glimpse into the tribe’s culture and heritage.
NORTH AMERICAN INDIAN DAYS
Experience North American Indian Days, an annual American Indian celebration. Every summer for four days during the second week of July, Browning hosts one of the largest gatherings of U.S. and Canadian tribes, featuring traditional games and dancing, a pow wow, and the unique and lively Indian Relays, where fans gather to cheer on their favorites. Read more here.
IRON SHIELD CREATIVE
Take a Blackfeet cultural adventure hike with Iron Shield Creative, and learn about the history of Glacier National Park and the Blackfeet connection to this cherished land.
4th of JULY VETERANS POWWOW
Attend the 4th of July Veterans Powwow at Chewing Black Bones Campground to honor and recognize the dedication and sacrifices of service members. This vibrant annual event pays homage to the region’s—and all—veterans and also showcases the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Blackfeet Nation.
VIEWS OF CHIEF MOUNTAIN
Take in the unique shape of one of Montana’s most majestic mountains, also believed by the Blackfeet to hold special powers. This natural landmark bordering Glacier National Park and the Blackfeet Reservation once provided a cultural center for many tribes. Visitors traveling along Chief Mountain Highway can view the peak from the road, as there is no public access to Chief Mountain from the Blackfeet Indian Reservation.
SCENIC DRIVES
Hit the road on U.S. Highway 2 from Browning to East Glacier Park—it’s perfect for road-trippers, especially if you’re thinking about beating the crowds and saving the Going-to-the-Sun Road for another day. You’ll find 14 miles of stunning scenery, and driving toward the majestic peaks of Glacier National Park is awe-inspiring. Along the way, you’ll spot the Blackfeet’s own herd of bison.
U.S. Highway 89 from Browning to Saint Mary Lake makes for an unbelievably stunning drive as well, and it picks up the east end of the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Stay and play at the pristine lake, or continue on to crisscross Glacier National Park via one of the most beautiful drives in America.
CAMPING, FISHING + HUNTING ON TRIBAL LANDS
Enjoy the great outdoors on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, where anglers, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts recreate. Just make sure you are up to speed on rules and regulations for recreating on tribal lands, and have a tribal recreation permit, before you head out for some R&R. Find a list of Blackfeet Tribal Campgrounds here.
FAUGHT’S BLACKFEET TRADING POST
Shop in Browning for a chance to take home a piece of Montana. At Faught’s Blackfeet Trading Post, visitors can find American Indian arts and crafts, a reflection of the local culture. Choose from American Indian clothing and western wear, plus books, pictures and prints, beading supplies and many other Indigenous arts and crafts made in Montana.
LODGEPOLE GALLERY
Spend the night in a cabin at Blackfeet Culture Camp in the beautiful foothills of the Rocky Mountains with prairie lake views and explore the Lodgepole Gallery, featuring displays of contemporary and traditional fine art, including Blackfeet art and intricate Blackfeet beadwork.
WESTERN CURIOS
Visit Western Curios, where you’ll find Blackfeet and Glacier Park logo souvenirs, moccasins, local crafts, Made in Montana items—including huckleberry products—breads, spices and Montana silversmith jewelry. This Browning mainstay has been a popular visitor attraction for years.
GLACIER PEAKS HOTEL + CASINO
Hit the jackpot in the heart of Blackfeet Country. At Glacier Peaks Casino, locals and visitors enjoy some of the largest payouts in the state. Glacier Peaks is open 24 hours, seven days a week and offers more than 500 machines, blackjack, craps, poker, roulette and more, plus a full-service bar, fine dining and modern accommodations.
MUSEUM OF THE PLAINS INDIAN
Discover the rich, historic and diverse arts of Northern Plains Tribal peoples at Browning’s Museum of the Plains Indian. The museum’s educational exhibits include historic clothing, horse gear, weapons, household implements, baby carriers and toys, to name just a handful. The gift shop features fine, authentic American Indian jewelry.
KYIYO MERCANTILE
Satisfy your sweet tooth at the newly opened Kyiyo Mercantile, which brings a fresh vibe to Browning’s retail scene, offering a variety of baked goods akin to the beloved Polebridge Mercantile. Kyiyo also offers cozy yurt and cabin rentals.
Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents Recreate Responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.
August 12, 2024
Related: American Indian, Arts and Culture, Blackfeet Indian Reservation, Blackfeet Nation, Browning, East Glacier Corridor, Events, Family Fun, Glacier National Park, GNP Surrounding Area, Indoor Fun, Montana, Museums, Outdoor Fun, Road Trips, Shopping, Stay, Vacation
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