Effigy Mounds Monument closes Visitor Center, but park and trails remain open

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and in alignment with Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations for public health and safety, Effigy Mounds National Monument has closed the Visitor Center and all indoor facilities to the public, effective immediately.

Park trails will remain open, including the North Unit trail system to Fire Point and Hanging Rock, and the South Unit trail system to the Marching Bear Group. All trails are open daily from dawn to dusk.

Rangers will be present at various times during the day to answer questions, weather and staffing permitting. Visitors can also call the Visitor Center at 563-873-3491 for additional information.

“This decision is not made lightly”, stated Superintendent Jim Nepstad. “We must act immediately to protect the health and safety of our employees, and their families as well as the public.” Employees at Effigy Mounds will continue to work, many from home, while others will be on site protecting park resources.

Maps and park information are available outside the entrance to the Visitor Center and online at https://www.nps.gov/efmo/planyourvisit/maps.htm. At this time of national stress and worry, the public is encouraged to enjoy the trails at Effigy Mounds National Monument while maintaining safe social distancing of six to 10 feet.

Effigy Mounds National Monument managers are working daily with regional and national leadership to monitor the situation and will provide periodic updates on the park website, www.nps.gov/efmo and Facebook page on the status of the Effigy Mounds National Monument Visitor Center operations.