Pipestone National Monument

Things To Do Near Pipestone National Monument

Experience Native American history and explore the lovely southwestern Minnesota countryside at Pipestone National Monument. Start in the visitor center, where educational exhibits explain the sacred nature of the local geology. Then, get outdoors to see the landscape for yourself. The small town of Pipestone sits a few minutes south, offering everything you need in the way of camping, shopping, and dining.

Hiking Trails

• Circle Trail

  The Circle Trail is one of two hiking trails in Pipestone National Monument. Starting near the visitor center, it travels in a loop, crossing Pipestone Creek and traveling past the rock quarries. You'll also explore a tallgrass prairie and get the opportunity to see the spectacular Winnewissa Falls. Feel free to bring strollers or wheelchairs; the trail is paved and easy to access. The land that you're walking through is sacred to Native Americans, so it's important to stay on the path. The Circle Trail is open all year, but it's particularly lovely when the leaves change color in the autumn. In the winter, bring snowshoes to explore the silent prairie.

  Location

  Visitor Center

  Length

  0.75 mile round-trip

  Intensity

  Easy

• South Quarry Trail

  Get a closer look at the pipestone quarries on the South Quarry Trail. Short and easy to navigate, this route takes you past several different rock pits. Some of the quarries are still in use, so you may see people hard at work digging through the quartzite to reach the precious pipestone underneath. Educational signs help you make sense of the landscape, and spring wildflowers create a picturesque experience.

  Location

  Visitor Center

  Length

  0.5 mile round-trip

  Intensity

  Easy

Sightseeing

• Nicollet Expedition Marker

  The Nicollet Expedition Marker, which is located near Winnewissa Falls on the Circle Trail, preserves rock art made in 1838. During a mapping and exploratory expedition to the region, Joseph Nicollet, John C. Fremont, and others carved their names and initials into the rock. When the local Native American people were forced to move to far-off reservations, they refused until the government preserved the quarries and guaranteed access; the marker sits at the center of this small reservation.

  Location

  Circle Trail

• Glacial Ripples

  As you're hiking along the Circle Trail, keep an eye out for the ripple marks that cover many of the quartzite rocks in the region. These are called "glacial ripples;'' they formed billions of years ago when an ancient river covered the landscape. The rippled shape was caused by the movement of water on the then-sandy landscape. You can see this unique glacial formation clearly on the short connector path that leads from the main trail to the Nicollet Expedition Marker.

  Location

  Circle Trail

• Cultural Demonstrations

  If you're visiting the Pipestone National Monument from late spring through early fall, check the calendar to find the latest cultural demonstrations. These exceptional demonstrations give you the chance to see Native American artisans at work. Topics range from wood-carving to pipestone excavation.

  Location

  Visitor Center

Museums

• Pipestone National Monument Museum

  Tucked into the visitor center, the small but interesting Pipestone National Monument Museum is a great way to discover the history of the site. Explore exhibits to learn about the Native American people who have been coming to the area for centuries, and experience the pipe-making tradition by watching the park video. When you head out to the Circle Trail, you'll have a deeper understanding of the enduring significance of the landscape.

  Location

  Visitor Center

• Pipestone County Museum

  Learn more about the unique history of this quiet part of Minnesota at the Pipestone County Museum. Set in a grand stone building in downtown Pipestone, this museum features artifacts, photos, and exhibits dedicated to local residents. Discover the lives of Native American people and European settlers who have lived in the area throughout the centuries. Make sure to check the schedule before your visit — the museum hosts fascinating lectures, walking tours, and other events throughout the year.

  Location

  113 S Hiawatha Ave, Pipestone, MN 56164

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• Down Home Bliss Boutique

  Find a new outfit at Down Home Bliss Boutique, a small women's clothing store. It specializes in cute and casual options for women of all ages.

  Location

  715 4th St NE, Pipestone, MN 56164

• Antiques on the Square

  Allow ample time to explore Antiques on the Square. Packed with treasures, this friendly store is a great place to find a hidden gem. Choose from options that include furniture, artwork, decor, and vintage jewelry.

  Location

  504 8th Ave SE, Pipestone, MN 56164

• Geyermans Clothing Co.

  Geyermans Clothing Co. carries clothing for women and men. Most of the styles are casual and comfortable, and easy to wear on an RV trip.

  Location

  201 Main St W, Pipestone, MN 56164

• Stonehouse Supper Club

  The Stonehouse Supper Club is a stylish small-town oasis. Pull up a table in the stone-clad dining room and enjoy hearty Midwestern fares such as cheese curds, steak, and hot wings. After dinner, head to the lounge for a cocktail.

  Location

  123 West Main St W, Pipestone, MN 56164

• Lange's Café

  Lange's Café delivers a classic diner experience complete with friendly service. Start your day with a huge egg breakfast, or come at lunch for a burger and fries. If you can, leave room for one of the excellent house-made pies.

  Location

  110 8th Ave SE, Pipestone, MN 56164

• Los Tulipanes Mexican Restaurant

  After you explore Pipestone National Monument, refuel at Los Tulipanes Mexican Restaurant. With its enormous menu and generous portions, this spot is great for families and hearty eaters.

  Location

  607 8th Ave NE, Pipestone, MN 56164

How To Get To Pipestone National Monument

Pipestone National Monument is located in the southwestern corner of Minnesota, close to the South Dakota and Iowa borders. If you're coming from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, head east on I-90 and turn north on MN-23 or US-75 to reach Pipestone. From Minneapolis, take US-69 to Mankato and then head west on MN-60 and MN-30 until you reach Pipestone. From downtown Pipestone, drive north on 8th Avenue NE, turn left on 11th Street and drive about 0.5 miles until you see the park entrance.

Address

36 Reservation Ave., Pipestone, MN 56164

Fee: Entry fee $0

Pipestone National Monument offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn about an active and sacred Native American tradition. As you explore the pipestone quarries, it's easy to imagine the people who have come to dig the precious red stone for centuries. An RV is a great way to see the monument and experience the pastoral wilderness of southern Minnesota.