A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Alberta is experiencing a surge in interest following a mention on a popular American TV show, with hopes for a busy summer season ahead. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump was featured in an episode of the award-winning medical drama series “The Pitt.” The show’s character, Dr. Michael (Robby) Robinavitch, portrayed by Noah Wyle, expresses his desire to visit the landmark located in the foothills of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
Used for centuries by Indigenous peoples, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is situated approximately 150 kilometers south of Calgary. It served as a site for herding bison and driving them over an 11-meter cliff for harvesting. The interpretive center, integrated into the sandstone cliff, delves into Blackfoot culture, local ecology, and archaeological discoveries, guiding visitors along a cliff-top trail.
Quinton Crow Shoe, the head of marketing at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, mentioned that the show has sparked curiosity among visitors, leading them to explore the off-the-beaten-path destination. The mention on the TV show has generated significant interest on social media and through emails, raising awareness and attracting more visitors to the site.
Designated as a World Heritage Site in 1981, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump typically welcomes around 60,000 visitors annually. Crow Shoe anticipates that the recent uptick in interest will result in increased visitation and tour bookings during the peak season from May to September. In addition to the TV show mention, promotional efforts such as discounts offered through the national Canada Strong Pass have contributed to the positive reception at the site.
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is part of a network of attractions in southern Alberta, including Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park and Waterton Lakes National Park, creating a comprehensive visitor experience in the region. Collaboration among these attractions aims to enhance the overall tourism appeal and support one another.
To capitalize on the show’s exposure, Travel Alberta released a promotional video featuring the TV characters superimposed against the backdrop of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump’s cliffs. Alberta Culture Minister Tanya Fir shared the TV clip on social media, highlighting the significance of Alberta’s history and cultural landmarks in captivating global audiences.