NPS Photo by Ken Block

Effigy Mounds National Monument visitor center is located at the base of 400 ft. limestone bluffs which overlook the upper Mississippi River.

Begin at the Visitor Center

Access to the Monument's natural and cultural features begins at the visitor center, which is located along the Mississippi River at the base of towering limestone bluffs. A 15-minute film interpreting the story of American Indian moundbuilding cultures, highlighting the "Effigy Mound Culture", is featured in the center's auditorium. Explore temporary exhibits, a children's "please touch" display, a formal museum exhibit displaying ancient Indian artifacts - and an educational bookstore.

NPS Photo by Ken Block

Early Woodland Indian Burial Mounds overlooking the upper Mississippi River at Fire Point.

Walking and Hiking Trails

Touring the Monument involves short walks along Accessible  trails or extended walks along steep hiking trails. Due to the sacred nature of the site as an American Indian burial and ceremonial ground, no roadways providing access to park resources exist; there is no self guiding automobile tour available.

A Fire Point Trail Guide is available; ranger guided walks and hikes are scheduled throughout the summer* and intermittently through the rest of the year. 

* Here comes the sun...

...the summer is normally indicated by the summer solstice when the Sun is usually at its greatest declination on June 20 or 21, the beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. Please check the "Schedule of Events" link for specific dates, including "summer" date ranges, and times programs are offered.

NPS Photo by Ken Block

Ancient American Indian tools Demonstration

Programs and Activities

A wide variety of ranger conducted activities and special events are offered throughout the year. 

Two-mile hikes to Fire Point featuring American Indian mounds are offered daily throughout the summer*. Other activities include wetland / riparian walks, tallgrass prairie hikes and ancient American Indian tool and weapon talks - including atlatl demonstrations. 

Special events include living history "Moonlight Hikes" and the Annual HawkWatch Weekend.

* Here comes the sun...

...the summer is normally indicated by the summer solstice when the Sun is usually at its greatest declination on June 20 or 21, the beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. Please check the "Schedule of Events" link for specific dates, including "summer" date ranges, and times programs are offered.