Buffalo History & the Mile High Bison

For several hundred years large herds of bison roamed the open prairies across North America. It is estimated that at the peak of the North American bison's existence, nearly sixty (60) million bison roamed from Mexico to Canada. Bison, which today are more commonly known as buffalo, were at one time so numerous that their stampedes across the prairie sounded like the roll of distant thunder. This earned the bison the nickname of 'thunder of the plains'.

And did you know these buffalo quick facts? Bison are the largest land mammals in North America since the end of the Ice Age and they even eat snow!

The plentiful bison were the mainstay of the plains-dwelling Native Americans. With the immigration of white settlers into the prairies of North America, the bison's numbers dwindled to a fraction of their original numbers, and at one point neared extinction. Today the American bison roams freely on protected government parklands and private ranches. Although their roaming area is barely a fraction of its original size, bison numbers have increased over the years.

Today bison are estimated to number approximately 500,000. They are nomadic grazers who are able to run faster than a horse, jump higher than a deer and swim better than a dog. The average weight of a full-grown animal is approximately 1,500 pounds. Bison have been known to use their horns to toss elk and even other buffalo several feet into the air. Their average life span is 25-30 years long.

Bison popularity has grown significantly over the past few years driven by the desire for people to live healthier lives. Bison meat is higher in iron, higher in protein, higher in Omega-3; lower in fat and cholesterol when compared to beef, pork, chicken and even salmon. This proven nutritional aspect combined with the taste and value make bison the culinary choice for today's consumer. The Mile High Bison herd is all natural, 100% grass fed (antibiotic & hormone free), and raised humanely.

The mission of Mile High Bison is to share the heritage and preserve the legacy of these great animals. The ranch is currently working with several public schools in Colorado offering educational field trips and the opportunity to have a "high plains bison experience". This is an opportunity to see the animals up-close and share educational information regarding the animal’s preservation and legacy on the North American continent for thousands of years.

We hope you enjoy the products we have to offer. Our buffalo meat has exceptional taste, high nutrition, and all-natural value. We are members of the American Grass Fed Association and the National Bison Association. We encourage everyone we meet to simply enjoy the exquisite flavor of the west!

Thank you for your interest in these majestic animals and giving us the opportunity to share our experiences with you. For more information on the Mile High Bison Ranch or the Mile High Bison herd, or to purchase additional products or meats, please contact the ranch OR, just give us a holler anytime at 303-258-6588, and we will be happy to help you.