- Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve (dnr.wa.gov)
Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve (NAP) was established in 1976 to protect rare examples of “mima mound” landforms and Puget prairie grasslands. The site includes a small Garry oak woodland and savannah (widely spaced oak trees with grass understory) and also supports a variety of prairie dependent butterflies and birds, and Douglas-fir forest. The NAP currently comprises 756 acres of grassland covered mima mounds, forest and oak woodland. In 1966, the National Park Service designated Mima Mounds Preserve as a National Natural Landmark, for its representation of our nation’s natural landscape; one of only 17 such landmarks in Washington state.
- Mima Mounds (wa100.dnr.wa.gov)
In Thurston County, Washington, mysterious mounded landforms create a wavy surface at the 637-acre Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve (NAP). This fascinating geological phenomenon will likely leave you wondering, “How did these mounds form?” Don’t worry, you’re not the only person asking this question. Researchers are also puzzled. For many, the appeal is more than the mystery—it’s the views and picturesque hikes. As you wander the trails of this secluded natural area, the raw beauty of the landscape will consume your senses. Enjoy views of Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens to the east, and the green hills of Capitol State Forest to the west. In the spring, purple camas flowers speckle the lush green grass that blankets these puzzling landforms. Come visit the Mima mounds and see what theory you come up with while enjoying this beautiful Washington natural area.
- Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve (Wikipedia)
Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve is a state-protected Natural Area in the southwest corner of Thurston County, Washington. The site was designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1966 as an example to protect mima mounds.