Wickliffe Mounds Visitor Guide

Have you ever heard of the Wickliffe Mounds State Historical Site in Wickliffe, Kentucky?

This is a beautiful Kentucky State Historical Site to add to your bucket list. Not only will you get to see ancient Native American mounds, artifacts, and see a mound that was studied, and they have a nice gift shop, too. You can walk to and on top of the mounds, and even hike on a small interpretive trail that has been created at the site.

In this guide, I’ll be showing you everything you need to know about visiting and enjoying Wickliffe Mounds in Wickliffe, Kentucky.

Information and History About Wickliffe Mounds

Wickliffe Mounds is the location of an ancient Mississippian archaeological site that dates back to around 1100 to 1350 A.D. The site is close to the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. Many Native American sites in the region are located near major rivers.

The Wickliffe Mounds State Historical Site has been preserved and is open for tours. Visitors can view the mounds, visit the gift shop, and access a hiking trail for free. For a small fee, you can visit the museum, located at the top of an excavated mound. Artifacts are present at the site, including arrowheads, pottery, and other items.

I recommend visiting the Official Website of the Wickliffe Mounds to learn more about the area’s history.

How to Reach Wickliffe Mounds

Wickliffe Mounds is located in Wickliffe, Kentucky, which is situated directly across the Ohio River from Cairo, Illinois.

• Use this Google Maps Link and input your located to read about the Wickliffe Mounds State Historical Site.

The roads to this site are all paved. There is a paved parking lot with adequate parking available. Most of the site is handicap accessible, although the mounds and trail access are made of grass and dirt.

The site is open for day-use only and may be closed periodically. Please check the official website for information on when to visit the site.

Visiting the Wickliffe Mounds Site

There is one short hiking trail at Wickliffe Mounds. It is less than an eighth of a mile in length. It is a loop and very easy. There are multiple interpretive signs indicating the names of the trees and plants you are looking at.

You can access the mounds on foot. There are signs throughout the mound sites explaining what each mound represented at the time. You can walk freely on your own and do not need a tour guide with you.

The museum costs $3 to $6 per person, with discounts applied for various statuses. The museum is a self-guided tour. It features a building built over an excavated mound. You’ll see some of the stuff recovered, as well as how the work was done. There are many artifacts to view in the museum.

I recommend walking the mounds, hiking the trail, visiting the museum, and purchasing something from the gift shop for a complete experience when visiting Wickliffe Mounds.

Special Guidelines and Safety Information

The Wickliffe Mounds site is a protected historical site in Kentucky.

You will never be permitted to dig, collect, or harm anything on the property. You should not touch or handle any artifacts, wildlife, flora, or other items on the property. Doing so could result in a criminal offense.

Please watch your step when hiking on the trail and be aware of potential hazards.

Lodging, Dining, Shopping, and Sightseeing Nearby

For lodging near the mounds, check out Riverview B&B, which is located in town, very close to the mounds site.

Kentucky Hillbilly BBQ is located directly across from Wickliffe Mounds. It is a BBQ that is well-known in the area, and if you enjoy this kind of food, you are very encouraged to dine there. There is also a coffee shop and a café located in town. Numerous gas stations and a dollar store are also available in Wickliffe.

There are several places to visit for sightseeing in the area. Fort Jefferson Overlook is beautiful, and there is a nice, large cross nearby to enjoy as well. The City of Cairo, Illinois, is located directly across the river, which features Fort Defiance State Park, where you can observe the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers.

Please remember to shop locally, as it helps support the community and keeps the area unique for everyone who lives here and visits.

Final Advice About the Wickliffe Mounds

I definitely recommend visiting the Wickliffe Mounds State Historical Site in Wickliffe, Kentucky.

The site is ancient and very historical. It would be a great place to bring the whole family for a great learning experience. Be sure to bring money (preferably cash) when visiting, as they have a lovely gift shop with a wide selection of unique items.

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And until next time, I’ll see you on the trail!

Watch the videos for this trail!

Below is a recent video that we filmed while enjoying this area.

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Enjoy these photos taken around this area!

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