Pictograph Cave

Pictograph Cave

Pictograph Cave is a 23-acre (93,000 m2) area of three caves (Pictograph, Middle, and Ghost caves) located 5 miles (8 km) south of Billings, Montana. Excavation of the three caves began in 1937.

Paintings known as pictographs are still visible in Pictograph Cave, which is the largest of the three caves.

The pictographs are thought to be between 200 and 2,100 years old. However their interpretations are still debated over.

The oldest pictograph is that of a turtle, radio-carbon dated to be approximately 2,100 years old. These pictographs are paintings of animals, warriors, and even rifles that document the story of the Native Americans of the area for thousands of years.

The caves are part of Pictograph Cave State Park, which features paved trails to the caves with interpretive signs about the paintings, the area's geology and vegetation. The park encompasses 23 acres (93,000 m2) and includes a visitor center and picnic facilities.

Location

3401 Coburn Road
Billings, Montana
USA

Getting There

The Cave Park is accessible by car or taxi. There is no public transportation available to the park. Visitors can drive to the park from Billings by taking I-90 East to Exit 23, then following the signs to the park. The park is open year-round, and there is a small admission fee.

Nearby Airports

This is a list of primary airports in Montana that have scheduled passenger service on commercial airlines.