A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Alberta has recently seen an increase in attention following a mention on a popular American TV show. The Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump was featured on an episode of the award-winning medical drama series, “The Pitt.” The character Dr. Michael (Robby) Robinavitch, played by Noah Wyle, expressed his intention to visit the landmark situated in the foothills of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
Located approximately 150 kilometers south of Calgary, the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump has been utilized by Indigenous communities for thousands of years to guide bison herds over an 11-meter-high cliff for hunting purposes. The site features an interpretive center integrated into the sandstone cliff, showcasing Blackfoot culture, local ecology, and archaeological discoveries, leading visitors to a trail along the cliff top.
Quinton Crow Shoe, the head of marketing at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, mentioned an increase in visitor interest attributed to the TV show’s mention. The show’s reference sparked curiosity among viewers, prompting them to explore the off-the-beaten-path destination. Crow Shoe acknowledged the positive impact of the show’s exposure on social media and email engagement, expressing gratitude for the heightened awareness and interest generated.
Designated as a World Heritage Site in 1981, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump typically welcomes around 60,000 visitors annually. Crow Shoe anticipates a surge in visitor numbers and motor coach tours during the peak season from May to September, fueled by the recent uptick in interest. Additional promotions, including discounts offered through the national Canada Strong Pass, have also contributed to increased footfall at the site.
Emphasizing the collaborative spirit among attractions in southern Alberta, Crow Shoe highlighted the interconnectedness of destinations like Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park and Waterton Lakes National Park. The collective efforts aim to encourage visitors to explore the diverse offerings of the region.
Furthermore, promotional initiatives, such as a video featuring characters from “The Pitt” superimposed on the backdrop of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump’s cliffs released by Travel Alberta, have further amplified the site’s visibility. Alberta’s Culture Minister, Tanya Fir, shared the TV clip on social media, showcasing Alberta’s rich history and cultural heritage to a global audience.
The positive reception generated by the TV show’s mention has bolstered optimism for a successful summer season at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, with hopes of sustained interest and increased visitation in the coming months.