Hiking at Mound Key

Mound Key Archaeological State Park has approximately 1 mile of trail from the northwest landing to the southeast landing through what is known as the Calusa Capital. The park is home to thousands of years of history, being the area where the Calusa Native Americans lived.

Visitors will experience a beautiful and scenic walk with some shade coverage. The trails take you over two large mounds located within the park. Climbing to the top of these mounds will give you an astounding bird’s eye view of the tree line of the island. Please keep in mind that the mounds can be quite steep, and you should be careful to make sure that you have secure footing while ascending the mounds.

Along the trail, there are numerous interpretive kiosks detailing the history of the park and the Calusa. Visitors can learn about how these people of the past worked, lived and played on the island. The mounds themselves are pieces of living history, having been left behind by the Calusa. Another piece of living history is the variety of plants and trees that were introduced to the island by the nearby Koreshan settlement. They still grow on the island, adding to its lush vegetation. Visitors may also encounter a diverse array of wildlife on the island, including the protected gopher tortoise, a wide variety of native and migratory birds.

Be sure to bring along plenty of water, sunscreen, bug spray and a hat on your hike. The trail may be short but visitors are sure to have an incredible experience exploring this small yet wonderful state park.