This Scenic Hike In Minnesota Winds Through An Ancient Burial Site

Minnesota has a long history. Even before statehood, the land that makes up our state has been occupied by native peoples for at least 12,000 years. As such, there are many places throughout the state where you can see evidence of those people. At Jeffers Petroglyphs, you can find 7,000-year-old rock carvings. At Pipestone National Monument, you can find ancient pipestone quarries. And at the interesting place we’d like to feature today, you can see ancient burial mounds. One great way to see them is by taking a hike through a St. Paul park that passes by the mounds and leads to a scenic overlook. Read on below to learn more about Indian Mounds Regional Park:

Indian Mounds Regional Park is a lovely historic park in St. Paul, Minnesota. It covers 79 acres and has plenty to offer for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

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A paved trail through the park leads to some interesting sites. It passes through grassy, tree-lined spaces…

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…and along the only remaining American Indian burial mounds in the Twin Cities.

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There are six mounds remaining today, each dating back around 1,500 to 2,000 years. They were first created by members of the Hopewell culture. Dakota people also buried people here.

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This site is a cemetery, and those interred here have living ancestors today. Guests are expected to be respectful and are forbidden from climbing on the mounds.

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After you take in this piece of Minnesota’s earliest history, continue walking. The park also has a playground, picnic shelters, and other amenities…

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…as well as a gorgeous overlook. High up on a hill, you’ll have an amazing view of St. Paul in the distance, with the Mississippi River running in front of it.

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Between its interesting history and lovely scenery, Indian Mounds Regional Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and history buffs. Be sure to stop in next time you’re in the area!

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Have you ever been to Indian Mounds Park? For more information about the park, visit its page on the St. Paul parks website. And if you have any other favorite places to take in Minnesota history, feel free to let us know by nominating them.