BEAR BUTTE STATE PARK

The park, recognizable at its rocky peak, detached from the grasslands surrounding it and known as Mato Paha (bear mountain), is a sacred site for the Amerindians. It is deemed to be a communication site with the gods, where the visions appear and where prayers are heard. During your visit, you will certainly discover pieces of colored fabrics and small packages hanging from trees, including tobacco. These are offerings, so please don't touch it.

Bear Butte was also a strategic historic site in the war between the American Army and the Amerindians. In 1857, a council of several Indian nations met to discuss the growing presence of settlers. Some time later, General Custer is going to camp nearby when he checks rumors of gold discovery in the region. Bear Butte becomes a readily identifiable benchmark for thousands of prospectors who will flood, attracted by gold fever.

Today, the State Park is a favorite place for nature lovers and allows you to take part in various sports activities such as hiking or fishing. Several trails allow exploring its different areas, including a scenic walk on the ridge and a pleasant walk to the lake.

The legend of Bear Butte. According to the legend of the Lakota, a giant bear and a sea monster like a dinosaur fought day and night. Their fierce battle filled the blood valley and the bear wounded by the sharp teeth of the marine monster began crawling before finding death. The soil then burst and darkness covered the land, accompanied by ash and fire. A few days later, the bear body disappeared leaving, instead, a hill taking the form of the sleeping animal. The Bear Butte Lake site was born and became a sacred site.