Fort Peck Indian Reservation -- The Assiniboine & Sioux Nation

The Fort Peck Indian Reservation stretches across the low hills and sprawling prairie of the northeast quadrant of the Missouri River Country. Millions of bison once migrated through the landscape and historic trails crisscrossed it – Montana’s second largest reservation, home to the Assiniboine and Sioux nations.

Reservation life is rich with traditions including annual powwows held throughout the summer months. A powwow is an Indian ceremony of thanksgiving, which renews and strengthens participants and celebrates their ancestral culture. Special powwows are held for individuals who accomplished a certain stage in their lives, such as graduation or acceptance in the armed forces with traditional honoring ceremonies, give aways, and feasts to celebrate the accomplishments. The oral tradition is still passed down from the elders to the youth. A myriad of dance styles retrace ancestral customs and celebrate their close connection to the land. These Indian family gatherings not only feature dancing and drumming, but traditional foods and story telling. The Wadopana Celebration is held in Wolf Point the first weekend in August.

The Fort Peck Indian Reservation is home to many fascinating artifacts and historical places including tipi rings, buffalo jumps and sacred sites. If you are interested in seeing them, contact the tribal office (406-768-5156) as tribal customs must be considered and respected. Visitors are welcome.