Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark

This 80-foot diameter stone wheel sits on a windswept ridge in the Bighorn Mountains, constructed by indigenous peoples an estimated 300-800 years ago. The wheel consists of 28 spokes radiating from a central cairn, with six smaller cairns around the rim that align with various celestial events. The site remains sacred to Crow, Cheyenne, Arapaho, Shoshone, and other tribal nations who continue ceremonial use.

Access requires a moderate 3-mile round-trip hike from the gate, as vehicles are restricted to protect the site. The final approach road closes with snow from October through June, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Visitors must stay on designated paths and maintain respectful distance from the wheel itself.

Sacred stone wheel atop the Bighorn Mountains