A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Alberta is experiencing increased attention following a mention on a popular American TV show, with hopes for a busy summer season. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump was featured in a recent episode of the acclaimed medical drama series, “The Pitt.”
The show’s character, Dr. Michael (Robby) Robinavitch, portrayed by Noah Wyle, expresses interest in visiting the landmark located in the Canadian Rocky Mountains’ foothills. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, situated 150 kilometers south of Calgary, served as a historical site where Indigenous communities herded bison over a cliff for hunting purposes.
The site features an interpretive center integrated into the sandstone cliff, offering insights into Blackfoot culture, local ecology, and archaeological discoveries, leading visitors to a cliff-top trail. Quinton Crow Shoe, the marketing lead at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, has noticed an increase in visitor curiosity sparked by the TV show’s mention, resulting in a surge of social media activity and inquiries.
Designated as a World Heritage Site in 1981, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump typically attracts around 60,000 visitors annually. Crow Shoe anticipates that the recent buzz surrounding the site will translate into higher visitor numbers and tour bookings during the peak season from May to September. Additional promotions, including discounts through the Canada Strong Pass initiative, have contributed positively to visitor numbers.
Crow Shoe emphasized the collaborative appeal of attractions in southern Alberta, from Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park to Waterton Lakes National Park, encouraging visitors to explore the region comprehensively. Travel Alberta leveraged the TV show’s mention by releasing a promotional video featuring the show’s characters 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 historical and cultural landmarks resonating with global audiences. The collective efforts aim to sustain interest in the region’s diverse attractions and heritage sites.
