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Live · updated todayTypical peak look

Effigy Moundsfall foliage

No reports yet this season for Effigy Mounds National Monument.

Next 7 days

  • Rain likely · up to 95% chanceTuesday Night, Wednesday, Wednesday Night, Thursday

National Weather Service forecast, issued Mon 2:26 PM (Eastern). Frost: a low of 36°F or less; wind: 20 mph or more; rain: 60% chance or more.

Frost near Effigy Mounds National Monument

First frost usually in ~3 weeks

Oct 17Average first fall frost

Apr 24Average last spring frost

The day a 32°F night is as likely as not, 1991–2020, at NOAA's Lynxville Dam 9 station (2.9 mi away, 633 ft). Source ↗ (opens in a new tab)

Best spots around Effigy Mounds National Monument

  • Fire Point Loop2 miles round trip, two Mississippi River overlooks
  • Twin Views3 miles round trip, overlooks north and south
  • Yellow River Boardwalk1 mile, flat, the best wildlife viewing
  • Marching Bear GroupTen bear-shaped and three bird-shaped mounds

How we know

National Park Service, Effigy Mounds things to do (opens in a new tab) (Sep 28) · National Weather Service forecast and alerts (opens in a new tab) (Sep 28) · NOAA NCEI U.S. Climate Normals 1991–2020 (annual/seasonal) (opens in a new tab) (Sep 27)

All our sources and how we use them →

Questions people ask

Can I drive through the park?

No. Because the site is a sacred American Indian burial and ceremonial ground, there are no car tours; all North Unit trails start at the visitor center.Source: National Park Service, Effigy Mounds things to do ↗ (opens in a new tab)

Which walk avoids the climb?

The Yellow River Boardwalk: 1 mile round trip with zero elevation gain, through a marsh and over the Yellow River. It is the best place in the park for wildlife viewing.Source: National Park Service, Effigy Mounds things to do ↗ (opens in a new tab)

Where are the best spots in Effigy Mounds National Monument?

Fire Point Loop: 2 miles round trip, two Mississippi River overlooks; Twin Views: 3 miles round trip, overlooks north and south; Yellow River Boardwalk: 1 mile, flat, the best wildlife viewing; Marching Bear Group: ten bear-shaped and three bird-shaped mounds.