Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
Time Needed: 1-2 hours, half-day
Experience Type: historic landmark, military history
Stand on hallowed ground where Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors defeated Lt. Col. George A. Custer’s 7th Cavalry in 1876. Mark the 150th anniversary by exploring trails, memorials, and interpretive sites that recognize the bravery, resilience, and loss on both sides.
MUST-DO CHECKLIST
- Drive the Tour Road – Follow a 4.5-mile route to the Reno-Benteen Battlefield, stopping at overlooks and listening to the cell phone audio tour for vivid storytelling.
- Visit Custer National Cemetery – Stroll among rows of graves honoring soldiers, scouts, and families from America’s frontier posts, including Medal of Honor recipients and veterans.
- Hike the Deep Ravine Trail – This half-mile walk reveals the topography of the battle and markers honoring both 7th Cavalry soldiers and Native warriors who perished here.
- Visit the Indian Memorial – A circular stone monument dedicated to the Lakota, Cheyenne, Arapaho, Crow, and Arikara people symbolizes peace, unity, and remembrance.
- See the 7th U.S. Cavalry Memorial – Erected in 1881 atop Last Stand Hill, this granite monument marks a mass grave of Custer’s fallen men and reflects on the tragedy of the battle.
Recommended Reading: The Last Stand offers a well-researched look at the 1876 Battle of Little Bighorn, examining Custer, Sitting Bull, and the clash that became legend. It explains the events, motivations, and myths that shaped this moment in American history.
Photo Credit: Montana Department of Commerce