Indian Mounds Loop Trail

Several types of burials were found in both Mounds Park and Dayton's Bluff. Most common were simple interments frequently accompanied by mussel shells and occasionally a projectile point. Small bundle burials were found in the upper parts of several mounds -- these were placed there by later peoples. Log tombs were found at the base of at least 3 mounds. A pit burial was found in one mound. In two of the Indian mounds were eight stone cists about 7 inches high made of thin limestone slabs set upright. Human bones were found in each cist and were accompanied by grave offerings, including shells, perforated bear teeth, copper ornaments, and a piece of hammered sheet copper, as well as the usual number of projectile points. Among the more startling discoveries was a skull covered with red clay producing the image of the original face. Nothing similar to this "death mask" had ever been found by archaeologists in mounds or ancient graves. The mask was removed intact during that excavation. The log tombs, hammered sheet copper and the clay death mask belong to the Hopewellian period. Want to learn more about the trees growing in Saint Paul? Explore the new Tree Trek at Mounds Park and learn about 30 different trees located along a relaxing walk through the park. From blooming crabapples to magnificent bur and white oaks the trail offers great trees, history, and views of Saint Paul. The trek begins at the pavilion located at the intersection of Mounds Boulevard and Earl Street.