Bighorn Medicine Wheel: The Star-Spoked Wheel Above the Clouds
Explore the Bighorn Medicine Wheel, an ancient sacred site blending astronomy and spirituality, vital to Native American traditions.
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel, located at 9,642 feet in Wyoming's Bighorn Mountains, is an ancient stone structure with 28 spokes radiating from a central cairn. It has served as a sacred site for Native American tribes for 7,000 years. Its key features include:
- Astronomical Alignments: Tracks solstices and the heliacal risings of stars like Aldebaran, Rigel, and Sirius.
- Spiritual Significance: A site for vision quests, prayers, and ceremonies, still used by over 60 tribes annually.
- Historical Importance: Estimated to date back to 1200 AD, with some alignments possibly accurate as far back as 3,200 BCE.
- Visitor Experience: Accessible via a 1.5-mile hike, it offers breathtaking views and a connection to ancient traditions.
This sacred site blends Indigenous astronomy with spiritual practices, offering a profound connection to the cosmos and the natural world.
Whether you're drawn by its celestial precision or its spiritual legacy, the Medicine Wheel continues to inspire awe and reverence.
A Timeless Star Circle: The Bighorn Medicine Wheel
The Structure and Star Alignments of the Medicine Wheel
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is a fascinating stone circle that showcases precise alignments with both the sun and stars, reflecting the advanced observational skills of indigenous peoples.
The 28-Spoke Pattern and Stellar Markers
One of the wheel’s most striking features is its 28-spoke design, radiating outward from a central cairn that measures 12 feet across and stands 2 feet high. This pattern mirrors the lunar cycle.
Between 1200 AD and 1700 AD, the wheel’s configuration marked several key celestial events: Fomalhaut’s rise 28 days before the summer solstice, Aldebaran’s appearance two days before the solstice, Rigel’s rise 28 days after, and Sirius’s emergence 28 days later.
The precise spacing of the spokes reveals a deep understanding of the stars, essentially transforming the wheel into a sophisticated stone observatory.
As Ivy Merriot, a writer from Bozeman, Montana, who specializes in indigenous astronomy, explains:
"Because of where and how the spokes turn, they're going to line up with different things in the sky at different times. And the 28 different units are not evenly spaced, because items in the sky are not evenly spaced."
Solstice and Star Alignments
Archaeoastronomer Jack Eddy discovered that the six cairns forming the wheel’s outer circle, when aligned with the central hub, mark the summer solstice sunrise and sunset. Later, astronomer Jack Robinson observed that sighting from Cairn F to D indicates Fomalhaut’s rise 28 days prior to the solstice. These solar alignments remain accurate even today.
Cairn F also serves as a vantage point for observing the heliacal risings of significant stars like Aldebaran, Rigel, and Sirius. Aldebaran’s appearance, just two days before the solstice, acted as a ceremonial marker.
The wheel’s astronomical precision was at its peak around 1200 AD. While minor orbital shifts have occurred since then, the solstice alignments still function as they were originally intended. As Ivy Merriot notes:
"Cultures all over the world have divided the night sky into 28 sections so they can track everything. It's really a magic number."
This shared approach to celestial tracking places the Bighorn Medicine Wheel within a global tradition of indigenous astronomy. Its combination of precise star mapping and ceremonial timing underscores its importance, not only as a tool for observation but also as a sacred site for vision quests and spiritual practices.
Spiritual Practices and Vision Quests at the Wheel
The Medicine Wheel, one of North America's most revered ceremonial sites, serves as a powerful meeting point for the earthly and celestial realms. Perched at a high altitude, this sacred site has long been regarded as the spiritual heart of regional tribal traditions. Its ancient energies have shaped vision quest rituals that continue to define its significance.
Vision Quest Traditions
The horseshoe-shaped enclosures at the Medicine Wheel are closely tied to fasting and vision quests practiced by local tribes. These vision quests are deeply spiritual journeys involving fasting, prayer, and seeking guidance from a guardian spirit. Participants commit to a four-day, four-night fast accompanied by continuous prayer, reflecting the intensity and dedication of these rituals.
The layout of Medicine Mountain mirrors the cosmological design of Plains Sun Dance lodges, with specific areas designated for camping, prayer, and vision quests, aligning with various tribal traditions.
The Crow Indians place special emphasis on the site's spiritual power. Their legends tell of the "Little People", a mysterious race of beings believed to be both protectors and challengers.
These beings are said to have played a pivotal role in Chief Plenty Coups' vision, which profoundly influenced his tribe's path. Through rituals like these, the Medicine Wheel continues to connect ancient traditions with present-day spiritual practices.
Current Ceremonial Practices
Today, the Medicine Wheel remains an active hub for Native American ceremonies. Each season, about 60 tribes perform nearly 180 rituals at the site.
The Crow and Arapaho communities maintain particularly strong ties, gathering here for solstice prayers and leaving brightly colored cloth offerings as a way to communicate with the spirit world.
Ethnographic accounts often describe the Medicine Wheel as the "altar" of the larger Medicine Mountain complex. Modern ceremonies range from sun dances and healing rituals to seasonal celebrations. These practices aim to foster harmony between participants and the natural world.
The wheel's precise alignment with cosmic markers continues to inspire awe, symbolizing the interconnectedness of life and the eternal cycles of nature. Tribal practitioners honor the landscape, embracing the wheel's circular design as a representation of unity and balance in existence.
Bill Matthews, a retired archaeologist with the Bighorn National Forest, highlights the site's universal significance:
"Native Americans come from all over from the United States... It's a Native American holy place, but it's internationally known and people from different races and different countries come to this sacred site."
These ongoing ceremonies breathe life into the Medicine Wheel, transforming it from a historical landmark into a vibrant spiritual center. It continues to guide modern seekers, offering wisdom and a deep connection to both the natural world and the spiritual realm.
The Energy and High-Altitude Experience
Perched at an impressive 9,642 feet above sea level, the Medicine Wheel blends the earth and sky in a way that magnifies its spiritual presence. This unique elevation not only enhances meditative practices but also strengthens the site's connection to the cosmos, creating a profound sense of harmony between the natural and the celestial realms.
Solar-Lunar Energy Balance
The Medicine Wheel is a remarkable fusion of solar and lunar influences. Its 28 spokes mirror the lunar cycle, while its solstice alignments pay homage to the solar calendar.
During the summer solstice, the sun's energy is at its most vibrant, creating a palpable intensity, while the winter solstice invites visitors to explore the mysteries of the night sky. Many believe that this interplay between the sun and moon creates a dual experience - energizing yet grounding - that leaves a lasting impact on those who visit.
Altitude and Meditation Effects
The high-altitude location of the Medicine Wheel adds another layer to its uniqueness. The thinner air and reduced atmospheric distortion sharpen celestial views and enhance meditative states. As noted by Gregory R. Campbell and Thomas A. Foor, anthropologists from the University of Montana:
"Sacred sites among northwestern Plains Indians tend to be high or on dramatically up-thrusting landforms." – Gregory R. Campbell and Thomas A. Foor
From the summit of Medicine Mountain, visitors are treated to sweeping views that encourage reflection on the interconnectedness of the surrounding landscape. However, the altitude comes with challenges.
The weather can shift unexpectedly, with intense sunlight, sudden chills, and strong winds, making preparation and acclimation essential.
The spirit of the Medicine Wheel is perhaps best captured in this reflection:
"Situated above timberline, Medicine Mountain represents over 10,000 years of native American culture in a spectacular setting that generates its own weather and spiritual power."
Star Knowledge and the Wheel's Precision
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel isn’t just a collection of stones; it’s a testament to centuries of refined astronomical knowledge. This ancient structure serves as both a celestial observatory and a sacred link between cosmic cycles and ritual practices.
Indigenous Star Mapping and Accuracy
The design of the Medicine Wheel reflects a deep understanding of the stars and their movements. In the 1970s, archaeoastronomer Jack Eddy studied the site and uncovered its remarkable alignments.
He found that the wheel marks the sun's rising and setting points during the summer solstice, as well as the rising positions of prominent stars like Aldebaran, Rigel, and Sirius. Building on this, astronomer Jack Robinson later identified a pair of cairns that pinpoint the rising of the bright star Fomalhaut alongside the sun, 28 days before the solstice.
This level of precision suggests the wheel was crafted with an awareness of long-term astronomical cycles. Its 28 spokes are not merely decorative; they reflect a unique indigenous cosmology that divided the sky into 28 segments for tracking celestial events. As Ivy Merriot, a writer specializing in indigenous astronomy, notes:
"Cultures all over the world have divided the night sky into 28 sections so they can track everything. It's really a magic number."
Some researchers believe the site's astronomical accuracy may date back even further. Evidence suggests that one spoke, which aligns almost perfectly with a sighting stone 4 miles away during the summer solstice sunrise, would have been in exact alignment around 3,200 BCE.
This implies the site may have been used for stargazing and tracking celestial events for over 5,000 years.
This intricate star mapping wasn’t just about marking time - it laid the foundation for the wheel’s spiritual significance.
The Wheel as a Cosmic Interface
The Medicine Wheel is more than an ancient observatory; it’s a bridge between the physical and the spiritual. Its alignments with heliacal risings provided a precise calendar for timing sacred ceremonies, linking earthly rituals to the rhythms of the cosmos.
At the heart of the wheel lies a central cairn, connected to the outer rim by 28 stone spokes.
This design symbolizes the harmony between the terrestrial and celestial worlds. Generations of indigenous astronomers observed the skies and preserved their findings in these stone arrangements, ensuring that this knowledge could guide future observers.
Even today, visitors to the Medicine Wheel can witness the same star alignments that once guided ancient ceremonies. It’s a powerful reminder of the enduring connection between human spirituality and the vast, unchanging patterns of the cosmos.
Visitor Guide to the Medicine Wheel
Visiting the Bighorn Medicine Wheel is an experience that requires thoughtful preparation and respect. Perched at an impressive 9,642 feet above sea level, this sacred site is one of the highest ceremonial locations in North America. To ensure a meaningful visit, follow these guidelines to honor its cultural and spiritual significance.
When and How to Visit
The best time to visit is from mid-June to mid-September when the mountain roads are passable. During this period, the site is generally open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., weather permitting.
However, mountain weather can be unpredictable, and ceremonial closures may occur without warning. To avoid surprises, contact the Bighorn National Forest Office at (307) 674-2600 or the Medicine Wheel/Paintrock District Office at (307) 548-6541 for the latest updates.
Be prepared for sudden weather changes, including afternoon thunderstorms, as conditions at this altitude can shift quickly. The journey to the Medicine Wheel involves a 1.5-mile hike each way, making it a 3-mile round trip on rugged mountain terrain.
If you have mobility challenges, arrangements can be made to drive to the smaller parking area near the site. Whether hiking or driving, bring water, wear layers, and allow extra time to adjust to the altitude and weather.
It’s important to note that access may be restricted during Native American ceremonies, which take precedence and can happen without prior notice. These closures honor the site's ongoing sacred role.
Respectful Ceremonial Practices
The Medicine Wheel is an active sacred site, and visitors are expected to treat it with the same reverence as any place of worship. On-site interpreters may close access temporarily for private ceremonies, and it’s essential to respect these closures.
If you encounter a ceremony in progress, maintain a respectful distance and observe in complete silence. Photographing ceremonies is strictly prohibited, as it is considered highly disrespectful.
When walking around the wheel, always move in a clockwise direction. This practice aligns with traditional customs and helps preserve the site's integrity and surrounding ecosystem. Stay on designated paths to avoid causing harm.
Do not touch or disturb the prayer offerings placed on the fence surrounding the wheel. These items - such as tobacco, sage, or personal mementos - represent deeply personal prayers and connections. They are not souvenirs or objects for inspection.
Visitors seeking solitude or spiritual reflection deserve space and privacy. Avoid photographing others without permission, as many travel great distances for quiet contemplation.
Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed and kept off the immediate path around the Medicine Wheel. Additionally, refrain from disturbing federally protected artifacts, cairns, or rock structures. Even moving a single stone can disrupt alignments that have been in place for centuries.
"The Medicine Wheel assists people along their path of life."
This quote serves as a reminder that the Medicine Wheel holds profound meaning for those who approach it with respect and sincerity. By honoring its sacredness, your visit becomes part of a long tradition of seekers drawn to this mountain to connect with something greater.
Conclusion: A Sacred Wheel for the Ages
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel stands as a timeless monument, blending the ancient wisdom of Indigenous peoples with the spiritual pursuits of today.
Archaeological evidence points to Native Americans visiting this sacred site for thousands of years, connecting past and present in a profound way.
Its precise alignments with the solstice and stars, long honored in Native American ceremonies, highlight the remarkable knowledge of its creators and its lasting spiritual significance. These celestial connections continue to inspire awe and reverence, drawing visitors from across the globe.
The Medicine Wheel’s ability to resonate with people from diverse backgrounds speaks to its universal spiritual importance - a place where vision, prayer, and ritual transcend generations.
More than anything, the Medicine Wheel serves as a powerful reminder that the search for meaning and connection knows no boundaries of time or culture. Old Mouse of the Arikara tribe captured this sentiment beautifully:
"Eventually, one gets to the Medicine Wheel to fulfill one's life."
Recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1970, with its protected area expanded to 4,080 acres in 2011, the Medicine Wheel remains a guiding force for seekers. Its preservation depends not only on federal protections but also on the respect and care of those who visit, aware they are treading a path walked by countless others over millennia.
FAQs
What do the 28 spokes of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel represent, and how are they connected to astronomical events?
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel’s 28 spokes are thought to symbolize the lunar month, a cycle that carries profound spiritual meaning in various Native American traditions. This sacred design underscores the deep bond between natural phenomena and the cultural practices tied to them.
Beyond its spiritual significance, the Medicine Wheel functions as a celestial calendar. Its layout is carefully aligned to mark major astronomical events like solstices, lunar phases, and the appearance of specific stars, including Aldebaran.
This intricate connection between spirituality and astronomy reflects a deep understanding of the cosmos and a harmonious relationship with the universe's natural rhythms.
How is the Bighorn Medicine Wheel used today in Native American spiritual practices?
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel holds deep spiritual significance for Native American tribes, serving as a site for vision quests, healing rituals, and seasonal ceremonies. It’s a place where individuals seek meditation, reflection, and a connection to ancestral traditions and the cosmos.
Every year, tribal members from various regions of the United States visit this mountaintop sanctuary. They gather to honor celestial alignments and the natural elements.
With its connection to solstices and star risings, the Medicine Wheel stands as a meaningful space for ceremonies that celebrate the harmony between Earth and the heavens.
What should I know before visiting the Bighorn Medicine Wheel, given its high-altitude location and cultural significance?
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is perched at an impressive 9,642 feet above sea level, so it’s essential to prepare for the challenges of high-altitude conditions.
Pack plenty of water to stay hydrated, apply sunscreen to shield yourself from the intense sunlight, and bring layers of clothing to handle sudden weather shifts and cooler temperatures. If you're not used to higher elevations, keep an eye out for symptoms of altitude sickness.
This site carries profound cultural significance. Stick to the designated paths, avoid touching or disturbing prayer offerings, and be considerate of any ceremonies that may be happening during your visit.
The hike to the Medicine Wheel is about 1.5 miles each way and includes some elevation gain, so plan ahead, especially if mobility might be an issue. For those who need it, special access options may be available.
With thoughtful preparation and a respectful approach, you can truly connect with the rich history and unique atmosphere of this extraordinary place.
