Washington State overflows with natural beauty. But people scratch their heads when it comes to the natural beauty of Olympia’s Mima Mounds. The Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve is hundreds of acres of land covered with mysterious lumps. Researchers have been studying the mounds for decades, but no one knows for certain what caused them. From aliens to gophers, there are many theories. So go visit today and see what you think created these bumps.

The Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve is located about 20 minutes south of Olympia, Washington. Visiting these rare bumps that cover the 445-acre National Landmark is a perfect day trip.
Brian Henderson/Flickr
The best way to explore the mounds is by hiking through the Preserve. The half-mile ADA accessible trail is great for those with strollers or wheelchairs. But there are also another two miles of pebbled paths for additional exploring. Note that you will need a Discover Pass to access the park.
David Bey/All Trails
Stop by the observation deck to get a great view of the mounds. When the sky is clear, you can even get views of Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens.
Brian Henderson/Flickr

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Wildflowers abound over the mounds. Nature lovers will find a variety of blooms here year-round. Be sure to bring your field guide to identify all the species. But helpful signs also dot the trails if you forget yours at home.
Washington DNR/Flickr
Many theories exist as to how these mounds formed. Early explorers speculated that the mounds were burial sites for Native Americans. But when they dug into the mounds, there were no signs of a burial. Others have even guessed that the lumps were made by extraterrestrials.
Washington DNR/Flickr
One of the more popular theories is that pocket gophers created the mounds. In fact, some people believe that this theory has solved the mystery. But it has yet to have been conclusively proven.
Brian Henderson/Flicker

So go visit today. And bring your best guesses as to what made these mysterious and rare landforms. It’s a great trip for the whole family. You won’t be disappointed.

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Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve, 12315 Waddell Creek Rd SW, Olympia, WA 98512, USA