Experience Native American history at Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site. This fascinating archaeological site near Atlanta preserves several ancient earthwork mounds built by the Mississippian culture from 1000-1550 AD. Climb the massive mounds for views over the Etowah River Valley and learn about the Native Americans who lived here centuries ago. Etowah Mounds provides a glimpse into Georgia’s indigenous past with hiking trails, exhibits, and ongoing excavations.
Location
Etowah Mounds sits just 45 minutes north of downtown Atlanta near Cartersville, Georgia. Take I-75 to exit 288 and follow GA-20 E for under 3 miles. The historic site lies on the south bank of the Etowah River.
Details
Address: 813 Indian Mounds Rd SE, Cartersville, GA 30120
Phone: (770) 387-3747
Website: https://www.gastateparks.org/EtowahIndianMounds
History
The Mississippian people constructed at least seven earthen mounds on this site between 1000-1550 AD as part of a large complex village. The two largest mounds rise over 60 feet high and likely served as foundations for wooden temples or elite residences. Etowah was a major regional center for politics, trade, and warfare before being abandoned around 1550.
Archaeologists have been excavating Etowah Mounds since the 1800s, uncovering fascinating artifacts like copper plates, weapons, pottery, and stone tools that provide insight into Mississippian culture. Excavations continue today, constantly revealing new pieces of history.
Key Historical Facts About Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site
- The Etowah Indian Mounds were built by the Mississippian culture between 1000-1550 AD. This was the most complex society in the southeastern U.S. before European contact.
- There are three main mounds – the Temple Mound, Burial Mound, and Mound A. The Temple Mound is 63 feet high and was the site of temples, residences of nobles, and political gatherings.
- Excavations have revealed the site was a major regional center for political, religious, and commercial activities. Artifacts like pottery, tools, copper decorations, and conch shell gorgets have been found.
- Defensive wooden palisades surrounded the mounds. This indicates the presence of warfare and military protection for the town.
- In the 1500s, the Native Americans abandoned the site for unknown reasons. European settlements did not reach this area until the early 1800s.
- Etowah has the largest assemblage of Mississippian culture burials in the southeast U.S. Grave goods suggest some people held elite status in the society.
- The museum features artifacts discovered at Etowah, including pottery, weapons, stone tools, and ornaments. Replicas allow visitors to understand the lives of mound-builders better.
- The site was purchased by the state of Georgia in 1953. Excavations and preservation efforts continue today to protect this important archaeological site.
What to See and Do
Hike up the towering 63-foot Temple Mound and 57-foot Burial Mound for sweeping views over the site and Etowah River Valley. Informational panels detail facts about the mounds’ construction, original purpose, and excavated artifacts. The passage inside Mound A recreates the experience of entering a burial mound.
Visit the museum to see artifacts found during excavations, like jewelry, weapons, pottery, and the iconic Etowah Stone with its mysterious carvings. Excellent exhibits illustrate how Mississippian people lived, built the mounds, produced food, and more day-to-day insights.
Don’t miss the ongoing archaeological excavations, which run during summer. Watch archaeologists dig down through layers of history and discuss recent finds. Young visitors can participate in a simulated archaeological dig near the museum.
Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the scenic hiking trail network passing wetlands, forests, and the 19th-century plantation house site. Picnic tables provide spots for lunch with a view.
Top Attractions
- Climbing Temple Mound and Burial Mound
- Museum, housing artifacts from excavations
- Watching real archaeologists dig at excavation sites
- Nature hiking trails by the river
- Hands-on simulated archaeological dig
Nearby Attractions
Downtown Atlanta, home to top attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola, lies just 45 minutes south of Etowah Mounds.
The quaint historic town of Cartersville is 10 minutes away, offering restaurants, shops, and the Booth Western Art Museum showcasing American West artworks and artifacts.
Red Top Mountain State Park sits 15 minutes west of the mounds, providing camping, hiking, fishing, and boating opportunities amid scenic Lake Allatoona.
Tellus Science Museum’s excellent galleries covering geology, mining, and fossils is just 20 minutes away in Cartersville.
Tips for Visiting
Spring and fall have mild weather perfect for exploring the mounds, with average temperatures around 60-75 °F.
Summers here are hot and humid, with highs in the 80s-90s°F. Take advantage of the museum’s air conditioning or picnic pavilion shade. Stay hydrated.
Winters are fairly mild, with highs in the 40s-50s°F. Pack warm layers and have rain gear on hand.
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the parking lot fills up. Consider carpooling to open up spaces.
Wear sturdy shoes for climbing the steep, uneven mounds. Bring water and snacks to stay energized.
Picnicking is welcome, but grills, alcohol, and smoking are prohibited. Keep voices low and leave no trace.
Dogs and bikes are not allowed on the mounds, but bikes can be walked along trails. Leashed pets may be brought on trails.
Conclusion
Etowah Mounds transports visitors centuries back in time to the world of the prehistoric Mississippian culture. Experience their history emerging from the earth through ancient mounds, compelling artifacts, and active archaeological excavations. This site provides rare insights into the daily lives of Georgia’s early inhabitants.
Respectful Conduct
Etowah Indian Mounds is a sacred site that deserves respect and preservation. Please stay on marked trails to avoid damaging archaeological resources. Leave all artifacts, structures, and features undisturbed. Refrain from climbing or standing on mound walls, as they are fragile. Through protection and stewardship, we help this place continue teaching valuable lessons about the past.
