Top 14 Natural Monuments around Monona
Best natural monuments around Monona offer a diverse landscape characterized by wetlands, forests, prairies, and significant historical sites. The area features unique natural formations, including glacial drumlins and the shores of Lake Monona. These locations provide opportunities to explore varied ecosystems and observe local wildlife. Monona's natural areas are also notable for their Native American effigy mounds, reflecting a rich cultural heritage.
Best natural monuments around Monona
- The most popular natural monuments is Picnic Point Mound Group, a historical…
Last updated: October 15, 2026
Picnic Point Mound Group
Highlight • Historical Site
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Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Class of 1918 Marsh
Highlight • Natural
covered all of the area now occupied by playing fields, parking lots, and the Nielsen …
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Cherokee Marsh North Unit
Highlight • Natural
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Edna Taylor Conservation Park
Highlight • Forest
A BELIEVER IN SENSIBLE ECOLOGY" SHE PROPOSED TO SELL
37 OF HER 98 ACRES OF …
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EDNA BE TAYLOR WAS A TEACHER, WRITER AND, IN HER LATER YEARS, A DAIRY FARMER. A BELIEVER IN SENSIBLE ECOLOGY" SHE PROPOSED TO SELL 37 OF HER 98 ACRES OF LAND TO THE CITY OF MADISON ADDED TO 10 ADJACENT ACRES ALREADY HELD BY THE CITY AND 11 ACRES PURCHASED FROM OTHER OWNERS, THE LAND, WHICH INCLUDES A SPRING, A GLACIAL DRUMLIN INDIAN MOUND, A MARSH, AND OAK STANDS WOULD FORM A CONSERVATION PARK TO BE ENJOYED BY FUTURE GENERATIONS. THIS CITY PURCHASED THE LAND IN 1912. FOUR MONTHS ATTER TAYLOR'S DEATH.
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There are four “extant” (still visible) mound groups you can visit on the main campus, all but one of them located within the boundaries of the Lakeshore Nature Preserve. Recently these mound groups were surveyed and entered in a special burial sites catalog maintained by the Wisconsin Historical Society. The label associated with each location includes a number used in the state Archaeological Site Inventory (ASI) maintained by the Wisconsin Historical Society. The site surveys establish a 25-foot preservation buffer around the mounds.
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Picnic Point Mound Group (DA121) The sixth extant mound is a large hemispherical form visible on your right just before you reach The Narrows (where the main trail dips near the beach).
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Unfortunately, during the last 25 years little has been done to maintain the marsh, in spite of the interest of a large number of people and the development of several management plans. It suffers from runoff from nearby construction sites, parking lots, and fertilized playing fields. In addition, the field on the south side of the marsh is used by the plowing crews to store snow (with its accompanying salt and debris) in winter.
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Fortunately, in 1969 an environmental studies class chose the marsh as its class project. After collecting a great deal of data and making allies of the local press, they convinced the university administration to rethink its plans and the land was saved as a wildlife refuge and teaching and research area. It is named for the Class of 1918 because this class agreed to reallocate money that they had donated during their 50 year reunion for a Japanese pond to the new project of enhancing the marsh. The 1970s saw dredging the marsh, building the trail around it, and the addition of a series of interpretive signs, which since have been lost due to vandals. There also were several attempts to establish prairie around the edge.
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The Class of 1918 Marsh is a tiny remnant of a large wetland that formerly covered all of the area now occupied by playing fields, parking lots, and the Nielsen Tennis Stadium. Fifteen thousand years ago when the glaciers receded from this part of Wisconsin, the marsh was connected to Lake Mendota; later a sand bar built up that isolated it from the lake. The university acquired the land in 1910 and began to experiment with draining the marsh to grow crops, a difficult prospect given that the area is lower than the lake. Tiles were laid and a series of pumps installed. The experiment was considered successful, but by 1965 the tiles came loose and the area reverted to wetland. At this point, the campus was expanding and the university administration planned to use the area for playing fields and parking lots. In the interim they used it as a landfill.
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Situated at the headwaters of Madison's lakes, Cherokee Marsh serves as a natural sponge, filtering upland runoff and utilizing excess fertilizer to nourish marsh plants, gradually releasing cleaner water to downstream lakes. As Dane County's largest wetland, it attracts thousands of students annually for environmental education. The North Unit features 2.6 miles of trails, a boardwalk, and two observation decks.
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Around 2,000 years ago, local inhabitants initiated the burial of their dead in the sacred mounds that scatter across the Point. At one time, Picnic Point boasted seven mounds, but relic hunters destroyed one mound before 1912. Today, the Preserve harbors numerous burial mounds and other ancient archaeological sites, reflecting the rich history and cultural significance of the area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular natural monuments to visit around Monona?
Visitors frequently enjoy the historical significance of Picnic Point Mound Group, where ancient burial mounds reflect a rich cultural heritage. Another favorite is Olbrich Botanical Gardens, known for its diverse themed gardens, including the unique Thai pavilion. The Cherokee Marsh North Unit is also highly regarded for its extensive wetlands, trails, and wildlife observation decks.
Are there natural monuments around Monona that are particularly family-friendly?
Yes, several natural monuments are great for families. Olbrich Botanical Gardens offers engaging themed gardens for all ages. The Cherokee Marsh North Unit provides easy trails and observation decks perfect for wildlife spotting with kids. Additionally, the Aldo Leopold Nature Center, though not listed as a highlight, is dedicated to nature education and features interactive exhibits and trails suitable for families.
What kind of historical and cultural sites can I find among Monona's natural monuments?
Monona's natural areas are rich in history. The Picnic Point Mound Group is a significant historical site with ancient burial mounds. Edna Taylor Conservation Park is notable for its seven native effigy mounds, including a panther-shaped mound, which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Woodland Park and San Damiano Park also feature Native American Indian mounds, reflecting the area's indigenous history and cultural significance.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The Monona area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including the scenic Lake Monona Loop and paths within Edna Taylor Conservation Park. For cyclists, there are excellent road cycling routes like the Lake Monona Loop and the Lower Yahara River Trail. Runners can also find dedicated running trails that offer diverse terrain and beautiful views.
Are there any natural monuments with significant wetlands or opportunities for birdwatching?
Absolutely. The Cherokee Marsh North Unit is Dane County's largest wetland, serving as a natural sponge and attracting diverse wildlife. It features observation decks perfect for birdwatching. The Aldo Leopold Nature Center also boasts wetlands, forests, and prairies, providing habitats for sandhill cranes and other native birds. The Class of 1918 Marsh is another wetland remnant that serves as a wildlife refuge.
What are the best natural features to observe in Monona's parks?
Monona's parks showcase diverse natural features. You can find unique glacial drumlins in Edna Taylor Conservation Park. The shores of Lake Monona offer stunning views and opportunities for water-based activities. Many areas, including the Aldo Leopold Nature Center, feature wetlands, prairies, oak savannas, and forests, providing varied ecosystems to explore.
What is the best time of year to visit Monona's natural monuments?
The best time to visit Monona's natural monuments largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the trails, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is ideal for water-based activities on Lake Monona. While some trails are accessible year-round, winter can offer unique snowy landscapes for those prepared for colder conditions.
Are there any natural monuments in Monona that offer scenic viewpoints?
Yes, several locations provide excellent views. Picnic Point Mound Group offers picturesque views, especially of Lake Mendota. San Damiano Park, with its nearly 1,075 feet of Lake Monona shoreline, provides stunning views of the Madison skyline and the Wisconsin State Capitol. The Cherokee Marsh North Unit also has two observation decks for scenic overlooks of the marshland.
Are there any natural monuments around Monona that are wheelchair accessible?
While specific accessibility details for all natural monuments are not fully available, the Aldo Leopold Nature Center is known for its commitment to accessibility, offering trails and facilities designed to accommodate visitors with varying mobility. The Cherokee Marsh North Unit features a boardwalk, which can offer a more accessible experience for some visitors.
Can I bring my dog to the natural monuments in Monona?
Many parks and natural areas in Monona are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific regulations for each location. Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in many conservation parks, provided they are on a leash and owners clean up after them. For example, Edna Taylor Conservation Park is a popular spot for dog walkers.
Where can I find trails with varied terrain or more challenging hikes?
For those seeking more challenging hikes, Woodland Park, Monona's only large forested area, provides a hilly terrain experience. The Lake Monona Loop, which can be hiked, also offers a longer and more difficult route. Edna Taylor Conservation Park features diverse landscapes, including a glacial drumlin, which adds some variation to its trails.
Are there any natural monuments that are considered 'hidden gems' in the Monona area?
While not widely publicized as 'hidden gems,' Woodland Park is often considered a lesser-known spot for those seeking a hidden adventure within the city, offering challenging hikes and Native American Indian mounds. The Class of 1918 Marsh is also a quiet, historical wetland that serves as a wildlife refuge, offering a peaceful escape.
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