Begin at the Visitor CenterAccess to the Monument's natural and cultural features begins at the visitor center. Stop at the front desk and pick up a brochure containing more information and a map of the hiking trails. Explore temporary exhibits and a formal museum exhibit that offers a brief introduction to the monument's natural and cultural history as well as displays artifacts. Hiking TrailsTouring 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, there are no automobile tours available. North Unit hiking trailsThe trailhead for all North Unit hiking trails is the monument’s visitor center. Except for the Yellow River boardwalk, all trail surfaces consist of dirt, gravel, wood chips, and leaves. Yellow River Boardwalk1 mile roundtrip, zero elevation gain, 30 minutes Fire Point Loop2 miles roundtrip, 350 feet elevation gain, 1 hour Twin Views3 miles roundtrip, 350 feet elevation gain, 1 hour and 30 minutes Third Scenic View4 miles roundtrip, 350 feet elevation gain, 2 hours Hanging Rock7 miles roundtrip, 600 feet elevation gain, 3 hours and 30 minutes South Unit hiking trailsThe trailhead for all South Unit hiking trails is on the west side of Iowa Highway 76 a half-mile south of monument’s visitor center. To get to the trailhead, one needs to drive from the visitor center to an Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ Day-use area located on the east side of Highway 76 as well as east of railroad tracks that are in constant use. To access the trailhead from the day-use area, visitors must walk across both the railroad tracks and the highway. Caution is advised; look both ways before crossing either the railroad tracks or highway. Founders Pond Overlook1 mile roundtrip, 350 feet elevation gain, 30 minutes Marching Bear Group4 miles roundtrip, 350 feet elevation gain, 2 hours Compound Mound Group4 miles roundtrip, 350 feet elevation gain, 2 hours Ranger ProgramsRegularly scheduled ranger talks and guided tours are offered during the summer months. Check the calendar page for a listing of programs and times or call the visitor center desk at 563-873-3491, ext. 123. |
Last updated: November 27, 2022