Poverty Point National Monument

Six concentric earthen ridges and several mounds rise from the Louisiana prairie, representing one of the oldest and most complex archaeological sites in North America. The central plaza could hold 30 football fields, and the precision of the geometric layout still puzzles researchers. The visitor center houses artifacts and explains the sophisticated trade network that brought materials from across the continent to this remote spot.

Located 15 miles northeast of Monroe, the monument is accessible year-round via paved roads. The walking trails are easy but can be muddy after rain. Cell service is reliable, and the site makes an excellent educational stop when running the nearby Catahoula or Kisatchie trails.

Ancient earthworks older than Stonehenge