Effigy Mounds to host September South Unit hikes...

Experience the beauty of fall at Effigy Mounds National Monument by hiking with a Ranger on one of the monument’s south unit trails. Starting Thursday, September 7, these interpretive Ranger-guided hikes will take place Thursdays and Sundays in September, beginning at 1 p.m. The moderately strenuous three- to four-mile hikes will focus on the lifestyles of the American Indians who built the mounds between 2500-900 years ago. The tours will conclude at one of the park’s iconic effigy mounds and will last approximately three hours.

Visitors should wear sturdy walking shoes, bring plenty of water and are reminded to not bring their pets. Meet the Ranger at 1 p.m. at the Marching Bears trail access located across the railroad tracks off Highway 76, one-quarter mile south of the headquarters of Effigy Mounds National Monument. Sunday tours are subject to ranger availability. For more information call 563-873-3491, ext. 123.

Effigy Mounds National Monument preserves prehistoric American Indian burial and ceremonial mounds, some in the shape of animals. The visitor center is open daily after Labor day from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is located three miles north of Marquette and 22 miles south of Waukon on Highway 76. Submitted photo.