Bear Mound Trail – Pikes Peak Sp

Distance: 3.5 miles Elevation Gain: 300 ft Difficulty: Moderate Type: Loop Surface: Dirt/Rock Activity: Hiking Best Season: Year-round Typical Time: 2-3 hours Fee: Free Dogs: Yes, on leash Permit: No

The Bear Mound Trail visits a collection of ancient effigy mounds built by the Woodland culture people between 500 BCE and 1200 CE. These earthen monuments in the shape of bears, birds, and geometric forms served as burial and ceremonial sites. Iowa has the highest concentration of effigy mounds in North America. The overlook along the trail provides views of the Mississippi floodplain and Wisconsin hills beyond.