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Established in 1976 to protect Mima mound landforms and Puget prairie grasslands, The Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve invites visitors to explore the 637 acres of grassland covered Mima mounds and forest land. As just one of 17 National Natural Landmarks in Washington, the Mima Mounds is a unique place to learn about geology, Mima mound hypotheses, prairie ecology, fire, and Native American historical usage of the mounds.

A ½ mile paved loop and two gravel paths are perfect for guests wishing to see and learn more about this beautiful and rare ecological system. Striking vistas of Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens are sometimes visible from this location.

Learn about geology at the Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve
© Courtesy of Zack Frank - Fotolia.com

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Visit Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge See vintage helicopters at the Olympic Flight Museum Take the kids to the Hands On Children's Museum Grab a snack at Olympia Farmers Market Take your teen to the WET Science Center Have a picnic at Percival Landing Park Washington Center for the Performing Arts Learn about sea life at the South Sound Estuarium Step back in time at the Bigelow House Museum Visit the Evergreen Valley Lavender Farm Learn about geology at the Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve Enjoy lake views from Millersylvania State Park Visit the tasting room at Medicine Creek Winery Learn about environmental issues at the East Bay Public Plaza Play with baby animals at Lattin's Country Cider Mill & Farm Play basketball at Priest Point Park Go scuba diving in Tolmie State Park Go birdwatching in Woodard Bay Conservation Area Walk your dog in Marathon Park Camp in Capitol State Forest Walk around the boardwalk at McLane Creek Nature Trail Enjoy State Capitol views from West Bay Park Visit the community gardens at Yauger Park Visit Heritage Park Fountain in downtown Olympia Walk to the Medal of Honor Memorial

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