Description: Six linear mounds and one panther effigy are located on a high glacial drumlin along the eastern side of the Edna Taylor Conservancy. Originally another linear mound followed the hill crest to the north of the existing group and a conical mound and another very long linear mound extended to the south.
Wisconsin has the highest concentration of effigy mounds in the United States and the Madison area has one of the highest concentration of effigy mounds remaining. Most mounds were lost to 19th century agricultural practices and city development. The mound builders were farmers who also engaged in hunting and gathering. They lived in small villages and migrated from one to another based on the seasonal availability of natural resources. The mounds often, but not always, have burials associated with them, but their exact purpose is not entirely understood. Mounds tend to have been built in places with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The mounds are considered sacred by modern Native Americans and should be treated with respect.
The mound group was designated a City of Madison landmark on May 7, 1990 and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Hiking is a great way to get out and explore Madison Parks. Thousands of acres offer everything from easy strolls to hilltop climbs, meandering woodsy trails and open fields. Hike on a path through a conservation park where we focus on native plant restoration and animal communities. Or take a walk in one of our many neighborhood parks providing a series of paths and trails of varying lengths and features. Post your photos on social media using #madisonparks
Turville Point Conservation ParkView all Hiking
Additional information on historic buildings or district questions may be found in the Department of Planning & Community & Economic Development Planning Division website.
Description: Six linear mounds and one panther effigy are located on a high glacial drumlin along the eastern side of the Edna Taylor Conservancy. Originally another linear mound followed the hill crest to the north of the existing group and a conical mound and another very long linear mound extended to the south.
Wisconsin has the highest concentration of effigy mounds in the United States and the Madison area has one of the highest concentration of effigy mounds remaining. Most mounds were lost to 19th century agricultural practices and city development. The mound builders were farmers who also engaged in hunting and gathering. They lived in small villages and migrated from one to another based on the seasonal availability of natural resources. The mounds often, but not always, have burials associated with them, but their exact purpose is not entirely understood. Mounds tend to have been built in places with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The mounds are considered sacred by modern Native Americans and should be treated with respect.
The mound group was designated a City of Madison landmark on May 7, 1990 and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Parking lots are available in these parks for the programs or events in these parks. Parking lots are available from 4:00 am to 10:00 pm. Overnight parking is not allowed. Parking regulations specific to that park are posted at the entrance of the park.
View all Parking Lots
Experience winter in Madison Parks like never before with snowshoeing! This silent sport is a fantastic way to explore many of our parks during the winter months and is easy to learn.
Snowshoeing at Door Creek Park
We have various length trails in our parks listed below, in addition, snowshoeing is also permitted anywhere with good snow cover with the exception of any groomed ski trail and off-trail in a conservation park.
Limited quantities of snowshoes are available to rent from the Elver Park winter shelter (see websitefor schedule).
TIPS FOR SNOWSHOEING
Snowshoeing is allowed anywhere in a park that is snow-covered and ungroomed and on ungroomed trails only in conservation parks. Snowshoes are not allowed on groomed cross-country ski trails at any time.
Sufficient snow (typically 4" or more) is needed to create a base for snowshoeing. The woods generally need more snow to fall due to the trees protecting the trails.
Our trail systems are designed to facilitate controlled public access while protecting environmentally sensitive areas and providing quiet refuges for wildlife away from people. Disruption of wildlife by human activity during the winter puts additional stress on them during a challenging time for their survival.
Snowshoeing, hiking, and skiing off trail destroys snow tunnels used by native small rodents (deer mice, shrews) by the trampling effect. These small mammals are an important part of the wetland and grassland ecology in our conservation parks. Destruction of these tunnel networks makes the small mammals more vulnerable to predation.
Conservation Parks are uniquely managed to further protect native species and wildlife. The following rules apply to all conservation designated parks.
Bicycles & Motor Vehicles
Bicycles and motor vehicles are restricted to entrance roads and parking lots.
Dogs
Dogs and horses are not allowed.
Fire
Fires and picnics are prohibited.
Firearms
No firearms or weapons are permitted in the restrooms or shelters. Violators are considered trespassers and subject to forfeiture or arrest.
Glass
Glass is not allowed.
Hunting & Trapping
Hunting and trapping are prohibited.
Open Hours
Conservation park hours are 4am until one hour after sunset.
Plants
All plants and animals are protected. Disturbance or removal requires written permission.
Trails
Stay on and use designated trails only.
Trash & Recycling
Place trash in container provided. Please take recyclable material home for proper disposal.
Hiking
Hiking is a great way to get out and explore Madison Parks. Thousands of acres offer everything from easy strolls to hilltop climbs, meandering woodsy trails and open fields. Hike on a path through a conservation park where we focus on native plant restoration and animal communities. Or take a walk in one of our many neighborhood parks providing a series of paths and trails of varying lengths and features. Post your photos on social media using #madisonparks.JPG)
Historical Feature
Additional information on historic buildings or district questions may be found in the Department of Planning & Community & Economic Development Planning Division website.
Parking Lot
Parking lots are available in these parks for the programs or events in these parks. Parking lots are available from 4:00 am to 10:00 pm. Overnight parking is not allowed. Parking regulations specific to that park are posted at the entrance of the park. View all Parking Lots
Snowshoeing
Experience winter in Madison Parks like never before with snowshoeing! This silent sport is a fantastic way to explore many of our parks during the winter months and is easy to learn.
